[Exalted 3e] Winter is Coming (IC)

[HalfTangible]

OOC (https://forums.giantitp.com/showthread.php?623303-Exalted-3e-Winter-is-Coming-(OOC))
Discord (https://discord.gg/Dgza6xs8dZ)

---

Winter is Coming
Session 1

"In the depth of winter, I finally learned that there was in me an invincible summer" -Albet Camus

[Fortitude]
The Twenty-Eighth Day of Descending Air

In a time long since forgotten, Fortitude had served as the largest and greatest prison of an Empire for whom criminality was carried in the blood. Those descended from a murderer were also murderers in waiting, and would be treated as such. The prison was built as a labor camp for. Beneath the prison lay catacombs that stretched in every direction beneath the soil, holding plants and jewels that had never seen the sun. Why the prison had been made to harvest these prizes has been lost to history, for that empire had shattered and been swept away long before the coming of the Realm. When the Scarlet Empress took the city into her empire, she paid it little heed. The city was made into a satrapy, but it was such a miserable scar on the land that no one wished to make use of it. Her armies moved on for far more prized targets in the north, and the Realm as a whole has done little to disrupt it since. The city was a Realm satrapy in name only, and no true satrap had lived in Fortitude for decades; so long as the city continued to trade gems and herbs with the Realm, it was allowed to do as it pleased.

Fortitude was always a dark place, but it was especially so during the winter months. Though not as far to the north as Crystal, Tusk or even Grieve, Fortitude was far colder than its location relative to these places suggested. This night was no different; the day had been overcast and frigid, but even the little warmth that the Unconquered shined upon Fortitude was beginning to sink beneath the horizon. People sought safety in their homes, by the roaring fires and comforting warmth of friends and family.

It was a strange place to an outsider. Though the city was no longer a prison, the buildings still looked like one even in newer areas. Markets had been set up within former prison yards. Buildings that once served as hab-blocks now acted as communal apartments and hotels, the centers of various communities. Watch towers that served no function of their own anymore dotted the streets, a constant reminder of the city's past.

Whether by Fate, by the lure of business, or simple bad luck you have found yourselves in the den of Soft Whispers, a crime boss within the city. The area was once a mess hall for the prisoners but has been converted into a tavern and his personal domain. A roaring hearth casts the room in a harsh orange glow, providing more warmth to the "guests" than many would ever experience in their lives. In the corner, a small fighting pit has been set up, and a pair of ruffians are beating each other up. One was a smaller woman with red hair, one arm hanging limp by her side as she grit her teeth. The other was a large man with a fierce beard, both eyes bruised shut.

At the bar, sake was pouring liberally. Pretty women and handsome men flirted openly with those customers that looked wealthy enough to buy more rounds, and the charmed patrons obliged not only for themselves but for the crowd. Others sat alone, exhaustion clear in their bowed heads and dirty limbs. Drunken laughter echoed throughout the makeshift tavern, and sudden cheers ring out as the fight in the pit ends, the larger man on his back as the girl gasps for air on her knees.

By the roaring fire, there are those who are not used to the cold of Fortitude, or who are hit more strongly than others. There are children gathered, overseen by a young man made gaunt and ragged by his time in the prison-city. He hands a young girl his coat and moves closer to the flames, rubbing his hands. A group at the bar notices him do this, one of the men standing up to walk towards him.

This is the situation in which you find yourself.

What are you doing?

[Justanotherhero]

Standing in appropriate distance from the fight and watching is Vor. A figure that could hardly be overlooked.

A statue of varicolored prisms, each gemstone segment no larger than a mortal’s thigh bone. He has three legs and five arms and no face. His body only covered by a green emblem on cloth.

To his left a woman covered in a fur coat with a face of very red colour for this region. She is wearing a similar green emblem on cloth.

To his right a tall man with dark hair ,green eyes and a rather bland face wearing a shield [and if he is allowed to a straight sword] wearing obvious armor made of animal hide. While the others are watching the fight Stark of Varlok is scanning the crowd for potential threats and just came back from providing the lady in the fur coat a new drink. He appears to be the guard and servant of the other two. And is also wearing a green emblem on cloth.

[WarDragon]

Brandr waits for his meeting with Soft Whispers, silently seething at being made to wait. Internally, he debates the practicality of simply walking, in stabbing the man and declaring himself in charge. He convinces himself - for the umpteenth time - that it would cause more problems than it solved, but may revisit the question if he's kept waiting for too much longer.

He tries to distract himself from his impatience by looking around for familiar faces, and finding a few. He marks the woman who won the fight as a potential quality recruit later, and keeps a wary eye on the strange three-legged creature and its guards. He nods to Marius, wondering idly what the other crimelord is doing here in Fortitude again.

His attention is diverted by the man walking towards the children. He keeps another eye on that situation as it develops.

[Volthawk]

The scene in front of Larin leaves a small nostalgic smile on his face. It reminded him of his youth, sneaking out from the tunnels to explore and end up in places lie this, particularly when it was this cold. These days, he was a lot more robust, and the heavy clothes he wore over his more distinctive uniform helped quite nicely as well, allowing him to sit in one of the quieter spots and get a read on the situation. He still wasn't sure yet if anything had to be done about Soft Whispers, although he was leaning towards no, but it was still helpful to keep an eye on places like this, which drew people in out of the cold and the dark. That, and he was still a human being who liked being warm and fed once you put all the other stuff aside.

Still, tonight was shaping up to be more interesting than he was expecting, judging by all the faces he was seeing. Either something was going on that he'd missed, or this was one of those coincidences that led to things spiralling out of control. There was always the chance of a coincidence that ends up being harmless, of course, but those were more pleasant surprises than something to plan for. Either way, this was something he'd have to keep a closer watch on. His eyes wander over the various doors out of the hall - one of them was presumably where Soft Whispers was, and whatever could happen had a good chance of involving him to some degree. Brandr also gets his interest - now that was someone who he was definitely aware of, and at this point the main hint as to what might happen, given something warranted the gang leader to turn up in person.

[Apogee1]

It was regrettable, Allev thought, that he had to spend so much time around these ruffians. But, supplies had to be acquired somehow, so here he was, with a stack of cloth and a vague understanding that one of the underbosses might be around to negotiate later on. In the meanwhile, he sits back at table off to the side of the hearth. He had been exchanging greetings and small talk with a few other tradesmen who have come here for similar purposes. The conversations have trickled off, however, and he's spending more time gazing about the room.

The crowd tonight had a few interesting presences. He couldn't quite place one man, who he thought had been a high-up in one of the gangs a few years back but he had not seen in some time. And of course the statue and the men around it, garbed in their green robes and emblems. Truly, this place was yet another power struggle waiting to happen. He lingered on a few of the people drinking alone, and on the children in the center. It would perhaps be unwise to go and offer them a drink and conversation or perhaps more before meeting with the leadership here, but he would do his best to do so before he left. The children especially could use a few extra layers. Noticing the approach towards them of the man from the bar, his eyes narrow slightly and he keeps the corner of his vision there as he waits.

[Justanotherhero]

He tries to distract himself from his impatience by looking around for familiar faces, and finding a few. He marks the woman who won the fight as a potential quality recruit later, and keeps a wary eye on the strange three-legged creature and its guards. He nods to Marius, wondering idly what the other crimelord is doing here in Fortitude again.

Stark nods in the direction of Brandr and carries on fulfilling his mission to bring drinks.

[DrakeRaids]

It was impossible to miss her, for several reasons.

The largest of course, was the giant white jade tetsubo leaning against the wall beside her as she savored a cup of sake. Even that aside though, her reflective, almost gemstone like eyes, the cool marble of her skin and obsidian hair, she was striking in the way that only a dragon blooded could be. And more than that, she was dressed in what looked like the attire of a monk. Though, it was curious what a Monk would be doing in a den of sin like this? Or perhaps not. Traveling monks needed to eat after all.

She had only just arrived in the town, if you could even be so generous to call it that, an hour or so before. And more than anything, she wanted something to eat and drink, and to rest her legs before she had to start getting to work. There had been some clandestine communication with at least one Anathem-Solar, in the city, but she would start courting them for a meeting tomorrow. Tonight? That was for letting her mind wander a little. The sake wasn't bad, honestly. Not nearly as good as what they had back home but... It was good enough to nudge the edge off. The food tasted excellent as well, but how much of that was due to having been eating trail rations for the past week it was hard to tell.

As it stood, she was more engrossed in her food and drink, and letting the weight of the road slide off her than she was the room around her at the moment. Reflection leaned back and smiled, genuine one as she enjoyed the ebb and tide of the rooms chaos. Every now and then someone would approach her, but she seemed excellent at being perfectly polite while also telling them effectively nothing about why she was here and who she was specifically. And it was always... Risky to press a Dragon-Blooded for answers they had no interest in giving. And at least thus far, no one had decided to try their luck. For the best, really.

This was her night off. Tomorrow, it would be time to recruit a Sun-King or two.

[Eurus]

"I don't know, Usho... This just doesn't seem like a hero kind of place."

Saint of Heroes was the sort of person who looked just a little bit out-of-place anywhere he went, and here was no exception. His build was too slender to be a laborer, his hands too fair to be a hired blade. His clothes were too cheap to be a merchant's, unless he was specifically trying to hide his wealth, but the bright (well, rather faded really) red cloak he was wearing wasn't the sort of thing you'd wear if you were trying to avoid notice. With his pale skin and long hair he might have been able to pass for a courtesan, but a once-broken nose and a few faded scars on his face made that seem equally unlikely. His walking staff, a tall length of pale wood banded with green-tarnished metal, didn't provide any clues.

"Yes, well, even heroes need food and shelter. Camping out was fine in the summer, but we're going to freeze to death in the night out here if we can't find a room."

His companion, Usho, fit in well enough. Bundled up in a more normal looking cloak, with a dagger strapped to his belt and a scarf covering his short hair, he'd probably be overlooked as a caravaner. The two were sitting in a corner, having found the place surprisingly busy and the tables all full, talking in casual, conversational tones and trusting the general noise of the room to inhibit any eavesdropping. Taking pains to whisper just made you look suspicious, after all.

"Yeah, yeah, I get it. Still, renting rooms from gangs? Shouldn't we be... I don't know, beating up some nasty thugs and then having a grateful old widow offer to let us stay with her out of gratitude or something?"

Usho sips his hot drink and shrugs, obviously used to his companion's eccentricities. "When you find some, let me know."

[HalfTangible]

Brandr, your meeting with Soft Whispers was supposed to begin an hour ago. His reputation suggests that such laziness is typical; the man is a womanizer and slothful in the extreme, preferring parties and cute women to any serious gang activity. However, despite this attitude, you know Soft Whispers has tremendous influence in the city, primarily as an information broker. If you need to learn something about Fortitude, he knows or will know. He's also quite adept at making people disappear - whether they want to or not. This contradiction between his attitude in public and his reputation has made the man unpredictable and his activities hard to trace. He would be invaluable to have on your side.......... if he would just ****ing meet with you already!!

Reflection, the waitstaff tries to get your attention, but they stop pretty quickly after you brush one or two of them off. Syl Geas was always cryptic about his exact motives for sending you anywhere. You know you're meeting with a Solar of some description, but you don't know their name, their appearance... or even their gender. All you really know is that he's excited about this particular prospect (well, relatively excited; Syl was always a bit dour). Finding him in Fortitude will take time, but Solars rarely keep themselves quiet for long; you're certain you won't spend much time waiting.

Marius, you get your drinks, and a wink from the cute barmaid. She twists a bit of brown hair around one finger, looking you over. "What brings you to this neck of the woods, handsome?" There's a soft purr to her tone.

Larin, Brandr looks impatient. He's waiting outside of one of the doors out of the main common area. You've seen such places before. This building was repurposed from the former prison, so you know the door he's waiting by leads upstairs, towards what would have been cells for the inmates. In all likelihood, Soft Whispers has set up an office or personal lounge for himself up there. It'd be easy enough to sneak upstairs... but with so many prominent criminals here (and from the looks of it a giant golem) lighting that powder keg may not be the best idea.

Allev, trade hasn't been good lately. Fortitude needs a lot of that trade to survive; Grieve in particular has been a great source of revenue in recent years for the herbalists and miners. But of course, none of that matters if you can't get a caravan from Fortitude to Grieve and back. Some caravans aren't returning, others that are expected never arrive. It happens, of course, especially this close to winter, but the tradesmen still get hurt by it.

The gangster stalking towards the fire doesn't seem interested in the kids. Instead he heads right for the man looking after them, and grabs him by the shoulder in the rough, confident manner of a hunter finding his prey. The younger man panics for a moment, backing away towards the fire, arms raised in a placating gesture. "Oh, h-hey, Butcher! How's the-"

In answer, Butcher grabbed Ilari by the neck and slammed him against the wall, drawing the attention of the entire room.

"Ilari you little ****." The man growled. "You didn't come back, we figured you died."

"D-did you mourn me?" Ilari tried and failed to give a smile.

"The boss hired you for a simple job." Butcher growled. "And you're alive. So. Where is it?"

"couldn't... get it..." Ilari choked out. "Butch... choking..."

Usho blinks twice, then glances at Saint. "Huh. Speak of demons and they'll come, I guess."

[DrakeRaids]

"Is there a problem?"

The commotion near the fire had drawn the Dragon Blooded's eye. She hadn't moved from her seat but her voice reverberated in the room, resounding like the echoes of a deep cavern. She made no move to lift her weapon, simply sipped at her sake as she watched the man threat, and choke the other man. People. This one was a bully. She'd never cared for bullies, and it was a dragon's duty to defend the weak, was it not? Still, brazen, how badly had this city fallen? Didn't they have something approaching order here, that would stop someone from being assaulted in plan sight? She gestured towards the Butcher from her table, tone still calm, but commanding.

"I think you should release the man. I don't think he can breath. If you don't, I'd have to get up. And I suspect you wouldn't like that."

[HalfTangible]

Butcher glances at Reflection and snorts. "This ain't the Isle. Ye got no authority here, lil' dragon." Despite saying this, he loosens his grip on Ilari's neck and lets him drop to the ground; even if Reflection doesn't technically have authority here, Butcher has no desire to see what she can do with that giant white tetsubo. "T'answer yer question, lil' Ilari here's stolen something from Zenmul. We thought he'd died, but since he's here, he owes our boss what he was paid for."

The boy gasps deeply, hand at his own throat. "I told you, I din't get it. I tried, but I got found. I barely got out alive!"

"Ye expect me to believe that you got out of the Warden's Court without a scratch? Come on, Ilari, if you're gonna lie, make it believable." The thugs with Butcher snorted, and one of them kicked Ilari's side. "Where is it?"

Those of you native to Fortitude recognize both Zenmul and the Warden's names. (Everyone else, roll Int + Lore, TN 3)Zenmul is the god of cooking and food within the city, but he was originally the god in charge of food for the prison. He's not exactly powerful or well-liked, but everyone needs to eat, and the slop he provides is better than nothing. He has a large following among the desperate and hungry within the city.

The Warden, though... Urias is known as the Unyielding Keeper of Cages and the Final Judge. While he is not the god of the city itself, he was originally in charge of the running of the prison. Guards once prayed to him for safety and good judgement in the face of the criminals, and though Fortitude has long since stopped being a prison, Urias still attempts to run it like one. All beings in the city are, after a fashion, descended from one group of criminals or another, and committing a crime in front of him is tantamount to suicide. He famously does not get along with Zenmul, and is more than a little unhinged.

Asking a boy in his late teens to steal from Urias is like asking him to do dental work on a shark while wearing raw meat. If it's true that Ilari tried to steal from him, the fact that the boy got out alive is a small miracle.

[WarDragon]

"If he's telling the truth, it's impressive enough he got out alive, let alone with whatever you asked him to steal. That'd take either luck or skill; which is it, boy?"

[Justanotherhero]

After hearing what the barmaid said Stark replies: "Rumours have it that some pretty women in the city are at risk of freezing to death during this winter and.."

As the conflict between the teen and the man begins Stark watches.
When the Dragon-Blooded begins to speak Stark stays where he is and signals in Vors direction to take a step back towards the Ring. Making room for the potential fighters.

Slowly grabbing his shield from his back.

[Eurus]

"Whoa! Okay, uh... what line should I go in on? I told you we needed to practice action lines..."

In the time it takes Saint of Heroes to process the situation and rise to his feet, someone else has intervened. The sonorous voice coming from the monk with the huge club was rather arresting, and Saint stopped short to listen and whisper to Usho.

"Wow. Are all Immaculates like that?"

At any rate, the immediate crisis seems to be averted. Nobody's actively being choked right now, so it's not a great time to swoop in and save the day. He's still standing with his staff in one hand as he watches the room, noting a few other people moving as well and trying to figure out what's going on. The names that the big guy mentions don't mean anything to Saint, but the basic idea -- that the young man's being shaken down for some missing loot -- is obvious enough.

[Volthawk]

Well, this certainly got more interesting, if the gods are involved. Larin hadn't turned his attention to the city's gods yet, preferring to deal with the mortal elements first, but it looked like they might be about to shift his priorities. For a few moments, he considers what to do next, before coming to a decision. This argument was public enough that he shouldn't have trouble finding out the details, and he had his suspicions that if Butcher was waiting here and Ilari had come here after failing, Soft Whispers had something to do with it.

Getting up from his seat, Larin walks over to one of the darker spots of the room, taking advantage of the distraction of the confrontation by the fire so he can simply step into the shadows cast by the firelight - quite literally, as the man becomes a shadow that starts moving towards the door to Whispers' office, discreetly slipping under the door.


Using the Belt of Shadow Walking's 10m (12m peripheral using the night anima power to make it mute) power to become a shadow so Larin doesn't have to actually open the door. If the lighting by the door qualifies as well-lit, anyone watching the door gets a difficulty 3 (Per+Awa) check to see the weird moving shadow.

[HalfTangible]

"Whoa! Okay, uh... what line should I go in on? I told you we needed to practice action lines..."

In the time it takes Saint of Heroes to process the situation and rise to his feet, someone else has intervened. The sonorous voice coming from the monk with the huge club was rather arresting, and Saint stopped short to listen and whisper to Usho.

"Wow. Are all Immaculates like that?"

At any rate, the immediate crisis seems to be averted. Nobody's actively being choked right now, so it's not a great time to swoop in and save the day. He's still standing with his staff in one hand as he watches the room, noting a few other people moving as well and trying to figure out what's going on. The names that the big guy mentions don't mean anything to Saint, but the basic idea -- that the young man's being shaken down for some missing loot -- is obvious enough.


After hearing what the barmaid said Stark replies: "Rumours have it that some pretty women in the city are at risk of freezing to death during this winter and.."

As the conflict between the teen and the man begins Stark watches.
When the Dragon-Blooded begins to speak Stark stays where he is and signals in Vors direction to take a step back towards the Ring. Making room for the potential fighters.

Slowly grabbing his shield from his back.


"If he's telling the truth, it's impressive enough he got out alive, let alone with whatever you asked him to steal. That'd take either luck or skill; which is it, boy?"


Well, this certainly got more interesting, if the gods are involved. Larin hadn't turned his attention to the city's gods yet, preferring to deal with the mortal elements first, but it looked like they might be about to shift his priorities. For a few moments, he considers what to do next, before coming to a decision. This argument was public enough that he shouldn't have trouble finding out the details, and he had his suspicions that if Butcher was waiting here and Ilari had come here after failing, Soft Whispers had something to do with it.

Getting up from his seat, Larin walks over to one of the darker spots of the room, taking advantage of the distraction of the confrontation by the fire so he can simply step into the shadows cast by the firelight - quite literally, as the man becomes a shadow that starts moving towards the door to Whispers' office, discreetly slipping under the door.


Using the Belt of Shadow Walking's 10m (12m peripheral using the night anima power to make it mute) power to become a shadow so Larin doesn't have to actually open the door. If the lighting by the door qualifies as well-lit, anyone watching the door gets a difficulty 3 (Per+Awa) check to see the weird moving shadow.


Ilari's grin was strained. "Uh, both, I guess? You looking to hire? I'll do whatever you want if you keep this guy from gutting me-"

"Don't you dare try and weasal out of this, brat! You're coming with us right after I rough you up for what you've done."

The barmaid speaking to Marius turns her attention towards the fight. "Now hold on, people, this place is Soft Whispers' territory, you start a brawl here-"

"Shut it."

Usho frowns, rubbing his chin. "Aw ****, um... how about... 'you villains thought to face a child, instead you face a hero'? Eh, maybe too generic... How about 'The Saint of Heroes has come to save this innocent... thief of divine treasures?' Uh... 'pick on someone better than you'? No, no, we don't wanna insult the kid..."

Vors' footsteps shake the room, drawing every eye and the full attention of most.

The room seems frozen, the tension ready to snap at any moment...

---

[Larin]

Larin, you are able to slip past the notice of anyone in the room thanks to Vors and the sudden shift towards violence that the room has taken. The door leads to a central chamber that at one point housed prisoners. The chamber is multi-storied, with cells lining the walls facing inward. The doors are merely bars, letting you see into each of them with relative ease. There are guards, but you slip past them easily enough. A few of the cells in this area are occupied, but near the top, you can see a trio of cells that have had their walls knocked down to be turned into a singular chamber; no guards are on that level, but it's worth a shot. And then, right as you get close, you hear...

... moaning, giggling and rustling clothes.

Oh dear.

When you look inside, you see a makeshift office with a large couch. There is a man and a woman intensely making out on the couch. From the looks of it, the two just started really getting into each other. No one's clothes are off yet, but the two are... exploring.

The man's neck bears a group of tattoos arranged as astrological signs. His skin is dark, screaming of a far southern origin. He is fit, lithe and good-looking; the kind of handsome that takes away the breath of even those uninterested in men. The woman is a scantily-clad redhead with smooth alabaster skin that you don't recognize, blushing profusely as the handsome man kisses her neck.

... This matches up pretty much perfectly with what you know of Soft Whispers. The neck tattoos are apparently a southern thing.

((Roll: 3sux))

Soft Whispers stops, then turns his head upwards towards the door. He glares directly at Larin.

"... Honey?" The woman asks, confusedly glancing in the same direction as he was, not seeing the shadow.

"Dear," Whispers said quietly, "Stay here on this couch and don't move. It seems we have a voyeur in need of a stern talking-to." He rose from his position on the couch, pulling his robe back on to cover his chest. "I know you can hear me, friend, and you cannot hide so easily. Come, speak with me."

His voice carries, and you can hear boots stomping.

[Justanotherhero]

Using this frozen moment in time in a way Stark of Varlok was very serious.

Marius was satisfied and hiding it very well. Vor had done exactly what he was supposed to do distract people.
In this case so he could take a look at the young man and the brute, anger and fear, such pure emotions it should be easy to find out if the boy is telling the truth.

With that Stark started studying the young man's movements. In what direction was he looking? Did he appear looking for help in the crowd? Maybe a secret accomplice? How do his clothes look? Any compartments for hidden weapons or new clothes?

(Read intentions 4 )

[DrakeRaids]

"No. I think this has gone on more than long enough."

Reflections words came out slow and steady, her inflection and accent marking her as someone who clearly wasn't from the region, Blessed Isle probably? She didn't know what all this was about, who the Warden or who this 'Butch' was or the 'Warden'. She honestly only tangentially cared. Knowing her luck it was going to become her problem somewhere down the line, bit for now she could hope that maybe she could carry on with her mission without getting fully entangled. Still, she wasn't about to watch an adolescent get the **** kicked out of him and, pragmatically, no one in this room seemed to want that. You didn't have to be an Exalted to read a room, this enforcer was making an ass of himself. If she intervened and played her cards right she could get the locals on her side. Could make finding her hidden little suns a little easier.

With the force of a rising mountain Reflection shifted to her feet. She towered over most of the patrons, her hand grabbing the heft of her massive goremaul and with a single arm lifted it effortlessly onto her should as she began to move towards Butcher. Every step seemed to shift the ground beneath them slightly as her coal black eyes glinted, reflecting the fires of the hearth. "You're disrupting a perfectly good night. I'm no expert but I don't think its good practice to do shakedowns of adolescents in the middle of a busy sake-den, right in front of someone who could break every single bone below your neck without any real effort. So since you seem to be having trouble making coherent life choices right now, let me give you some advice 'Butch'."

"Get the **** out before I break your legs."

[WarDragon]

"Wasn't talking to you, Butcher," Brander says, his spear dipping down to point at the thug. "Much as it sickens me to admit it, I agree with the Dragon-Blooded. You'd best back down." His eyes never leave Ilari, trying to decipher whether he's being honest... and whether this was even worth his time

((OOC: Rolled 5 sux on Read Intentions in the discord.))

"As it happens, I might be. I'll warn you though, your first job for me would be to finish your last one," he says, nodding at Butcher. "I've got no desire for a blood feud with Zenmul."

[DrakeRaids]

Sickens him to admit it?

That was curious. Opinion on the Realm wasn't an all time high here but that was a dangerous thing to say to some Dragon-Blooded. She didn't say anything, but her gaze noticably flickered over to Brandr now. Despite her casual method of speech it was hard to appraise what was going on her head. She gave away little as she looked over the man as if trying to find something. Before then glancing back returning her glower to Butcher, the moment passed.

[Apogee1]

As Reflection and Brandt confront the man, Allev stands up and moves closer to the fire. He’s moving slowly, not particularly trying to hide but rather seeming somewhat cautious or hesitant. He circles towards the children Ilari was near, approaching whichever seem to be the eldest.

“Would you all care to join me at my table?” he says, glancing back towards the brewing conflict. Running a hand over the wrapped length of his sword, he pulls a few colorful threads into his fingers and twirls them, forming small woven patterns between his fingers. “I would be happy to add a little something to your clothes, and it might be a bit more enjoyable than around this fire in a few moments.”

[Volthawk]

Larin shrugs as he steps out of the shadows, the motion making the cloak he was wearing slip off his shoulders and reveal the Hundred Coils beneath. Someone with Whispers' knowledge should know exactly what the clothes mean, and he's content to let any uncertainty about the reason for his presence linger for a while longer.

"I was simply curious what was keeping you from your meeting." He looks at the woman and shrugs again. "I was expecting it to be a more interesting reason. Your tendencies might cause you problems, you know. Sooner rather than later, from what I've seen..." After giving the statement due pause, he continues. "Not from me, though. Not today. You have bigger issues than that." He pauses again, seeing how Whispers responds to the bait he's dangling.

[Eurus]

Tragically, Saint of Heroes feels that he's missed his window. The number of frankly scary people starting to get involved in this is getting excessive, and he's a little worried that a brawl at this point might level the building. He can't quite pull his eyes away from Vor; even if he's not a thief anymore, the lure of shiny things is hard to resist, and that creature is awfully shiny.

"Ah, what a mess. I knew this place would have a rough crowd, but this is wild."

He sighs, but doesn't sit down quite yet. If a fight does break out, obviously he'll have to get involved. Sharing the glory will be annoying, but nobody said the hero's life was easy...

[HalfTangible]

Usho puts a hand on Saint's shoulder. "Hang on, hang on, you don't wanna try and compete with the dragon, do you? An Immaculate could give us trouble even if they don't know you're... ya know."

The moment Butcher showed up Ilari had quickly drawn inward. His eyes had been darting furtively throughout the building as the conversation went on, looking for any way out. Ilari didn't have any allies here, as far as you can tell. Perhaps he'd been here seeking asylum?

His clothes were worn and ragged; thick enough for the cold, but just barely. He'd had that outfit for a long time and never replaced it despite clearly, desperately needing to. There might be a weapon hidden somewhere, but it doesn't seem likely. If he had one, why wouldn't he have used it by now? At the very least when Butcher had him by the neck. You get the sense that Ilari just wants to get out of here alive, and from the way he looks at Butcher, Ilari doesn't think that's likely. And when Brandr says that he'd hire Ilari on, he initially relaxes... up until he says he would need Ilari to finish his last job. Then he goes right back to panicking.

Allev is able to get the kids moving away from the fight about to go down, though they don't seem eager to leave the warmth of the fire behind.

Reflection's threat booms throughout the room. For a moment, there's a pause, as if someone is waiting for Reflection to announce she's joking... but then, one of the girls with Butcher takes a step back. Then the man with a scar. Until all of them have backed away, leaving Butcher standing alone facing a dragon.

Butcher looks between all of those standing up to him now, and his cronies. Then he turns to glare at the dragon, seemingly unphased (though Brandr and Marius can tell he's scared too). "Fine, we're leaving. But this isn't over. Ilari can't-"

The bonfire suddenly goes out, and the room is plunged into darkness.

There was dead silence in the now lightless room.

".... oh, hang on, lemme..." Someone called out, as sparks leapt up near the hearth. "Huh, that... that's odd. It should be catching... anyone got a light?"

---


Larin shrugs as he steps out of the shadows, the motion making the cloak he was wearing slip off his shoulders and reveal the Hundred Coils beneath. Someone with Whispers' knowledge should know exactly what the clothes mean, and he's content to let any uncertainty about the reason for his presence linger for a while longer.

"I was simply curious what was keeping you from your meeting." He looks at the woman and shrugs again. "I was expecting it to be a more interesting reason. Your tendencies might cause you problems, you know. Sooner rather than later, from what I've seen..." After giving the statement due pause, he continues. "Not from me, though. Not today. You have bigger issues than that." He pauses again, seeing how Whispers responds to the bait he's dangling.

"Bah. Vague platitudes from a jealous man are not going to sway me. You have no appointment and I have no desire to indulge you anyway." Soft says, turning back to the girl. "Please take him downstairs. We have pleasurable company for you there if you are so inclined, stranger."

The guards arrive, two on each side of Larin. One of them places her hand on his shoulder, firm but not forceful. "Come on, big guy, we've got-"

The lights in the room all extinguished at once.

"... This is in poor taste, boy."

That got the guard to grip his shoulder tighter. "Don't you dare-"

[Volthawk]

Larin doesn't move, past slightly turning his head to address the guard with a hand on him. "You can take my hand off me now. I'm leaving here under my own power, when I want to, and if you try to force the issue, we'll see the difference between how two untrained thugs and a master of Ebon Shadow style and the foremost assassin of the Order Below fights. It will not end well for you." He then looks back at Whispers, the dark not bothering him much - he may not know why it happened, but he would soon, and for now he had more immediate problems. Besides, it was an advantage for him here. "This isn't me. It might be because of you though, if the little drama going on in your establishment has anything to do with you. He who scorns the gods invites retribution, after all."

[HalfTangible]

[Larin]

"Assassinations are the last refuge of the incompetent and the cowardly." You don't hear or see the door open, but Soft Whispers walks forward and between blinks of your eyes is standing before you, outside of the cell. "And he who must boast of power has none. I have done nothing to scorn the gods, boy; my only meetings today are with mortal gangsters. Now speak plainly. What are you referring to?"

[Eurus]

As the lights go out, Saint of Heroes' catlike reflexes kick in and he jumps back into a corner, on guard for some sort of shadow-beast attack... which never comes. After a few awkward moments, his eyes adjust enough to make out at least the general silhouettes in the room.

"...What's going on? Usho, stick with me."

Carefully, Saint navigates toward the door, relying on his agility to avoid any collisions. When he gets there, he opens the door, quite likely letting out the heat but at least letting a bit more light in. It also lets him take a quick look outside, to see if there's any commotion out there.

[HalfTangible]

"Sna- Saint, wait, hold up, it's-" As Saint pulls the door open, a cold wind blows into the building from the outside, cutting deep into his flesh like a blade. Saint's quick glance out the door shows that - fading sunlight aside - the city is dark. He can't see any lights or fires anywhere. Some people are, like him, poking their heads out of doors to see what's happening. No panic seems to have begun, but there is clear confusion. Usho pulls Saint back inside and pushes the door shut. "We've only got so much heat in here, 'Saint'!"

Whispers and murmurs have sprung up among the patrons.

"What could do this?"
"Anathema?" One of the patrons suggested.
"Ghosts? Fire hurts them, right? Could be a prelude to an invasion."
"Is the Warden angry?"
"Could a sorcerer do this?"

"What about a dragon-blood?" The barmaid that had been flirting with Marius glances at Reflection. "Could a fire-aspect do something like this?"

[WarDragon]

"Everyone stay calm! Stumbling about and making wild guesses won't help!" Brandr's voice cuts through the darkness. "If you don't have good reason to move, stay where you are. You're less likely to get hurt that way. As to what did it... an Exalted could have snuffed one fire, but the whole street at once? I doubt it."

He starts moving through the crowd, keen senses and preternatural grace helping him avoid collisions. "I'm going to talk to Whispers. Nobody kill each other until I get back." The last is mostly directed at Butcher.

[DrakeRaids]

"I'm an Earth aspect. Idiot."

Reflection shifted, she didn't like new situation. Was this related to the theft? Possibly. Malfeas Below all she wanted was one night off to enjoy her sake and relax? "Yeah. This is probably some sorcerer or alchemist had an accident or something. Everyone just... stay where you are. I'm going to see whats going on outside." She hefted her maul over her shoulder and gave the assembled mortals a wry smile, it couldn't be seen in the dark but it still bled through her tone, confident and in control. "Ten Thousand Dragons circle the world. And you've got a personal one tonight. I won't let anything get out of hand. Trust me. Just don't do anything rash." And with that she turned and began to head out of the sake-den, seeing what the city looked like outside. Was it localized to here or...?

[HalfTangible]

"Everyone stay calm! Stumbling about and making wild guesses won't help!" Brandr's voice cuts through the darkness. "If you don't have good reason to move, stay where you are. You're less likely to get hurt that way. As to what did it... an Exalted could have snuffed one fire, but the whole street at once? I doubt it."

He starts moving through the crowd, keen senses and preternatural grace helping him avoid collisions. "I'm going to talk to Whispers. Nobody kill each other until I get back." The last is mostly directed at Butcher.


"I'm an Earth aspect. Idiot."

Reflection shifted, she didn't like new situation. Was this related to the theft? Possibly. Malfeas Below all she wanted was one night off to enjoy her sake and relax? "Yeah. This is probably some sorcerer or alchemist had an accident or something. Everyone just... stay where you are. I'm going to see whats going on outside." She hefted her maul over her shoulder and gave the assembled mortals a wry smile, it couldn't be seen in the dark but it still bled through her tone, confident and in control. "Ten Thousand Dragons circle the world. And you've got a personal one tonight. I won't let anything get out of hand. Trust me. Just don't do anything rash." And with that she turned and began to head out of the sake-den, seeing what the city looked like outside. Was it localized to here or...?

The barmaid scowls. "Not what I meant, you're a dragon blooded, you probably know dozens of fire-aspects! ........ ma'am." Her tone just barely borders on respectful.

Reflection, when you go outside, it doesn't take long for you to realize that whatever's happened at Whispers' den is happening all over the city. As far as you can see, there are no fires or lights. The sun is going down. However, it's cold out and with the sun going down it's only going to keep getting colder. If you want to go further, you're going to have trouble (it's an environmental hazard), and you aren't sure where you're going yet anyway. Fortitude is new to you. Sorcerers could fix this, but you don't know where they are. One of the gods, maybe, but where to find them, either?

You don't know where you would find the Solar heroes Syl Geas insists are here, but surely this sort of crisis would draw their attention? Yet you see no golden auras, either. This city is dark.

---

Brandr, Butcher growls at you and Ilari shrinks away towards where the fire used to be. As you go through the door and up the stairs to the third floor, you see Larin Tanas, held in place by a group of four guards, knelt down in front of a regal and attractive southern man with tattoos on his neck; Soft Whispers, surely. He glances over as you arrive. In the closed cell behind him, there is a woman with long red hair, a blanket pulled around herself.

"Brandr, isn't it?" The man frowned. "From your sudden intrusion I take it this sudden extinguishing of all light and fire occurred downstairs as well?"

[WarDragon]

"Yes, and outside as far as I could tell through the open door. I suspect one of the city's gods might be responsible; we need to deal with this. You and I can discuss how much I hate being kept waiting later." He sniffs the air; it reeks of lust, making him suspicious that Whispers was procrastinating for no good reason.

[Volthawk]

Larin shrugs again. "Those who say that about assassins tend to be simply unable to deal with the unexpected and problems outside of their speciality. For the sake of civility, I'll let your doubts about my abilities stand - later, perhaps, you can find my order and find the truth." He sighs. "Mortal criminals is understating it already, given who I saw waiting for you - Brandr isn't one to delay, incidentally. However, in that case-"

Brandr's arrival interrupts him, and he stays quiet for a moment before continuing, addressing Brandr with somewhat more familiarity than their actual amount of previous contact would suggest. It still benefitted him for Whispers to think that he was in a better position than just working alone based off hunches. Hopefully Brandr reacted in a fitting way. "Ah, Brandr. Is that little thief still here, or has he scurried away in all this darkness? Whispers here claims he had nothing to do with it and, presumably, that the incident below happened here coincidentally, so any more information will have to come from the source."

[Justanotherhero]

Stark turns to the barmaiden:

"I do not know, but what would the reason be?"

Turning to Vor he speaks loud and clear:

"Sir, shall I arrive by your side or.. "

He gazes towards the door and the beings headed in that direction.

"...comply?"

Using Subtle Speech Method: (3m)

Vor please offer that we help the Dragon-Blooded.

[Eurus]

Even though it's only a brief glimpse, what Saint of Heroes sees through the doorway is enough to unnerve him. This spell of darkness seems to be widespread... and it's going to get very cold and very dark, if it lasts much longer.

"...Well, shoot. This feels like magic, and I don't know much about magic."

This is true, but considering that Saint doesn't know much about most things, it's also unsurprising. Still... he chews over the question for a minute. What does a hero do, when something's wrong and he's not sure what it is? He goes to whoever's in charge and demands answers. Looking at Usho, he scratches his barely-stubbled chin thoughtfully.

"This city has gods, right? Like Whitewall? If anyone should know what's going on here, it should be them."

More loudly, he addresses the room in general.

"Hey, where do your gods hang out? I'm going to ask them what's going on!"

[Apogee1]

As the fires cut out, Allev freezes and drops a hand to his blade, expecting something to happen back at the center. When instead rumors begin to swirl about why the fires in this saloon and, perhaps, across more of the city have all stopped, he frowns. This seems like the working of magic, but by who? The Keeper, for all that he had degenerated over the years, did not seem to be a likely culprit, and would another god in the city have the ability to do this? Something to consider, perhaps, but Allev would guess there was some other foe out there. Regardless, this city was going to be in dire condition if the fires were out. Too many people would not have the warmth needed to survive. Yet another disaster in Fortitude that he would work to fix.

While considering the situation, Allev walks, stepping carefully, around some of the people near him, asking if they were hurt as the lights cut. When a man by the doorway calls out about finding and meeting with some of the gods, he considers for a moment, then walks towards the door.

"Which gods do you seek to meet? Soft Whispers resides here. I am familiar with some of the others, and could accompany you to them, but I cannot promise they would be looking for visitors with what has just happened."

[Eurus]

Saint of Heroes looks blank.

"...Whichever one's in charge, I guess?"

[Apogee1]

Saint of Heroes looks blank.

"...Whichever one's in charge, I guess?"

"That would be the Warden, or the Keeper of Cages, pretty much the ruler of the city. He's ... well, I think its difficult being a god of prisons in a city of gangs and he is not the god he once was. We'd may be able to find him, but he, or more likely his enforcers, might not appreciate that much at the moment."

A tinge of panic creeping into his voice as he explains, Allev glances over Saint of Heroes another time, and more calmly asks.

"You new to the city? You seem a bit ... enthused regarding this whole thing."

[WarDragon]

Larin shrugs again. "Those who say that about assassins tend to be simply unable to deal with the unexpected and problems outside of their speciality. For the sake of civility, I'll let your doubts about my abilities stand - later, perhaps, you can find my order and find the truth." He sighs. "Mortal criminals is understating it already, given who I saw waiting for you - Brandr isn't one to delay, incidentally. However, in that case-"

Brandr's arrival interrupts him, and he stays quiet for a moment before continuing, addressing Brandr with somewhat more familiarity than their actual amount of previous contact would suggest. It still benefitted him for Whispers to think that he was in a better position than just working alone based off hunches. Hopefully Brandr reacted in a fitting way. "Ah, Brandr. Is that little thief still here, or has he scurried away in all this darkness? Whispers here claims he had nothing to do with it and, presumably, that the incident below happened here coincidentally, so any more information will have to come from the source."

He was still there when last I saw. I stopped him from getting gutted all over Whispers' floor."

[Eurus]

"Of course! I..."

Saint's stance suddenly shifts, pushing out his chest in a swaggering posture.

"...am the infamous wandering warrior, Saint of Heroes. And I'm going to get some answers from this Warden, if he's letting his city fall into such vile darkness!"

[HalfTangible]

"Yes, and outside as far as I could tell through the open door. I suspect one of the city's gods might be responsible; we need to deal with this. You and I can discuss how much I hate being kept waiting later." He sniffs the air; it reeks of lust, making him suspicious that Whispers was procrastinating for no good reason.


Larin shrugs again. "Those who say that about assassins tend to be simply unable to deal with the unexpected and problems outside of their speciality. For the sake of civility, I'll let your doubts about my abilities stand - later, perhaps, you can find my order and find the truth." He sighs. "Mortal criminals is understating it already, given who I saw waiting for you - Brandr isn't one to delay, incidentally. However, in that case-"

Brandr's arrival interrupts him, and he stays quiet for a moment before continuing, addressing Brandr with somewhat more familiarity than their actual amount of previous contact would suggest. It still benefitted him for Whispers to think that he was in a better position than just working alone based off hunches. Hopefully Brandr reacted in a fitting way. "Ah, Brandr. Is that little thief still here, or has he scurried away in all this darkness? Whispers here claims he had nothing to do with it and, presumably, that the incident below happened here coincidentally, so any more information will have to come from the source."


Stark turns to the barmaiden:

"I do not know, but what would the reason be?"

Turning to Vor he speaks loud and clear:

"Sir, shall I arrive by your side or.. "

He gazes towards the door and the beings headed in that direction.

"...comply?"

Using Subtle Speech Method: (3m)

Vor please offer that we help the Dragon-Blooded.


Even though it's only a brief glimpse, what Saint of Heroes sees through the doorway is enough to unnerve him. This spell of darkness seems to be widespread... and it's going to get very cold and very dark, if it lasts much longer.

"...Well, shoot. This feels like magic, and I don't know much about magic."

This is true, but considering that Saint doesn't know much about most things, it's also unsurprising. Still... he chews over the question for a minute. What does a hero do, when something's wrong and he's not sure what it is? He goes to whoever's in charge and demands answers. Looking at Usho, he scratches his barely-stubbled chin thoughtfully.

"This city has gods, right? Like Whitewall? If anyone should know what's going on here, it should be them."

More loudly, he addresses the room in general.

"Hey, where do your gods hang out? I'm going to ask them what's going on!"


As the fires cut out, Allev freezes and drops a hand to his blade, expecting something to happen back at the center. When instead rumors begin to swirl about why the fires in this saloon and, perhaps, across more of the city have all stopped, he frowns. This seems like the working of magic, but by who? The Keeper, for all that he had degenerated over the years, did not seem to be a likely culprit, and would another god in the city have the ability to do this? Something to consider, perhaps, but Allev would guess there was some other foe out there. Regardless, this city was going to be in dire condition if the fires were out. Too many people would not have the warmth needed to survive. Yet another disaster in Fortitude that he would work to fix.

While considering the situation, Allev walks, stepping carefully, around some of the people near him, asking if they were hurt as the lights cut. When a man by the doorway calls out about finding and meeting with some of the gods, he considers for a moment, then walks towards the door.

"Which gods do you seek to meet? Soft Whispers resides here. I am familiar with some of the others, and could accompany you to them, but I cannot promise they would be looking for visitors with what has just happened."


Saint of Heroes looks blank.

"...Whichever one's in charge, I guess?"


"That would be the Warden, or the Keeper of Cages, pretty much the ruler of the city. He's ... well, I think its difficult being a god of prisons in a city of gangs and he is not the god he once was. We'd may be able to find him, but he, or more likely his enforcers, might not appreciate that much at the moment."

A tinge of panic creeping into his voice as he explains, Allev glances over Saint of Heroes another time, and more calmly asks.

"You new to the city? You seem a bit ... enthused regarding this whole thing."



[Larin and Brandr]

"Stop trying to make an enemy out of me, Larin Tanas, I can assure you you already have."Soft rolls his eyes. "What possible motive could I have for eliminating all heat from the city? If anything I would eliminate it in the surrounding area but keep it here to lure in more subjects. If I had no care for the lives of others."

He waved at Brandr dismissively. "Frankly I thought you'd left already. But yes, we can discuss matters later. Come, the Warden will likely be responsible or know who is." He blew a kiss back into the cell, and walked past Brandr. "Sorry sugar, emergency. You can stay if you wish."

"He was still there when last I saw. I stopped him from getting gutted all over Whispers' floor."

Soft stopped.

Slowly - VERY slowly, like a great gate grinding open - he turned his head back around to lock eyes with Brandr.

"... I'm sorry, I know the fire is more important, but... This place is supposed to be neutral ground. Repeat that for me... who was about to gut whom in MY tavern?"


Persuade: Tell me who was about to gut who, don't lie to me. (4sux)

Check versus your resolve (3).

None of your intimacies apply here from what I can tell. He's not trying to scare you, so your specialty doesn't apply either. You can boost your resolve with motes or resist automatically with 1wp if you want. Or you can just tell him the truth, which I imagine won't be an issue here :P

---

[Saint, Reflection, Marius, Allev]

"Soft is a god?"
"No, don't be ridiculous. He just looks like one."

The barmaid glances between Saint and Allev. "You'll probably find him in his court, near the center of the city. But it's a long way there, especially with the sun going down..."

"We don't have much choice, Rose." One of the other employees called out to her. "If someone doesn't go get the lights turned back on, we're all gonna freeze to death anyway."

She bites her lower lip. "I mean, there's plenty of us here, we could... all cuddle up and bundle up, we might make it through the night... Set out in the morning with the sun?"

Usho glances at Saint. "'s your call, mate. Staying here might be the better call for us... we'll stay out of the cold..."

"DRAGON BLOOD." The large earth elemental stepped closer to Reflection, literal crystalline eyes turning to look into her metaphorically crystalline ones. "I OFFER MY SERVICES, AND THOSE OF STARK OF VARLOK, TO YOU. WE SHALL RESTORE THE FLAMES OF THIS CITY."

As Saint announces himself, there's a moment of silence in the building.

Then, "Who?"
"Wait, you don't know either?"
"Oh thank the gods, I thought I was the only one..."
"You shouldn't say you're infamous if you're not, kid, you'll give people heart attacks."

Usho scowls. "Well you WILL know him when he saves all of you faster than you can say 'the Empress bathes in goat's blood'!"
"Oh gods, does she?"
"Is that how she stayed young for centuries?"
"I heard it was the blood of her own children... that's why she had so many of them!"
"She had goat kids?!"

Usho buries his faces in his hands. "Snatcher do we have to save these people?"

[Volthawk]

"You were the one calling on thugs. I was simply clarifying that going down that route wasn't a good idea. If you're willing to help, I have no issues there." He still wasn't sure Whispers was right for the city - something about him rubbed Larin up the wrong way. Perhaps another visit was due once the present situation had been dealt with. "Your neutrality and purported level of knowledge of what's going on here was why I assumed you were involved, with the current situation being an unintended effect of provoking the gods. I didn't realise you were simply unaware that people involved in something this big were in your tavern and in conflict with each other. I suppose we'll need to talk to the men in question, then." He starts walking towards the door to the main room.

[DrakeRaids]

"This is progress."

Reflection strode towards the Elemental, she didn't know enough about this places power structure to jump to any conclusions. She was about to try to poke around for some information, maybe a temple she could start looking into. This was as good a lead as any though. She didn't know who those other two would be heroes where but there was no use in letting anyone else get hurt. On the other hand... More help was good, and there where lives on the line. "Alright, uh, 'Saint'. Come on, if you wanna help stay with me, don't go running off the more we have the better our chances." And the better, so she could ensure no would be hero got themselves killed. "And you... big guy! You say you work for some Stark? Where are they? He's a sorcerer I assume? That'd be useful."

[WarDragon]

For a brief moment he contemplates lying or refusing to answer, just out of sheer contrariness. On the other hand, this is the first moment when Soft Whispers has actually seemed like someone worthy of the respect he garners. That should probably be encouraged.

"Ah, I was wondering if you actually had teeth," he says with a slight smile. He shrugs and goes on. "It's of little consequence; one of Zenmul's thugs was about to rough up and drag off a young thief they'd hired, who didn't have whatever he was supposed to steal. Zenmul's boy, Butcher, seems to think the thief's holding out on them, but I'm inclined to say he's telling the truth about barely escaping the Warden with his skin intact. One of your other guests and I pointed out the room was against him, and he backed down. Deal with it as you will."

[Eurus]

The dull thwack of Saint's palm hitting his forehead is the only immediate response he gives to the hubbub of the room, and he shoots Usho a sympathetic look. When Reflection speaks, he decides to focus on that instead. Being ordered around isn't really ideal, but... the monk is honestly impressive, with that weapon of hers. Saint finds himself wondering if he can learn to channel a bit of that effortless, heroic arrogance.

"Well, alright. The more the merrier!"

[Justanotherhero]

Reflection strode towards the Elemental, she didn't know enough about this places power structure to jump to any conclusions. She was about to try to poke around for some information, maybe a temple she could start looking into. This was as good a lead as any though.
And the better, so she could ensure no would be hero got themselves killed. "And you... big guy! You say you work for some Stark? Where are they? He's a sorcerer I assume? That'd be useful."

Stark stands there confused for 2 seconds until he tries to grab something on his left, that is no longer there. Realizing his sword is currently with the tavern he steps forward falls on one knee in front of the Dragon-Blooded and Vor holding up his shield where his sword should be.

Honorable Dragon, I am Stark of Varlok servant of Vor.
The eternal bringer of the Flamestone and Master of Vor is not with us in this city, but I shall be of service if you wish?

[HalfTangible]

"You were the one calling on thugs. I was simply clarifying that going down that route wasn't a good idea. If you're willing to help, I have no issues there." He still wasn't sure Whispers was right for the city - something about him rubbed Larin up the wrong way. Perhaps another visit was due once the present situation had been dealt with. "Your neutrality and purported level of knowledge of what's going on here was why I assumed you were involved, with the current situation being an unintended effect of provoking the gods. I didn't realise you were simply unaware that people involved in something this big were in your tavern and in conflict with each other. I suppose we'll need to talk to the men in question, then." He starts walking towards the door to the main room.


For a brief moment he contemplates lying or refusing to answer, just out of sheer contrariness. On the other hand, this is the first moment when Soft Whispers has actually seemed like someone worthy of the respect he garners. That should probably be encouraged.

"Ah, I was wondering if you actually had teeth," he says with a slight smile. He shrugs and goes on. "It's of little consequence; one of Zenmul's thugs was about to rough up and drag off a young thief they'd hired, who didn't have whatever he was supposed to steal. Zenmul's boy, Butcher, seems to think the thief's holding out on them, but I'm inclined to say he's telling the truth about barely escaping the Warden with his skin intact. One of your other guests and I pointed out the room was against him, and he backed down. Deal with it as you will.""I remind you that this is my private residence above the tavern, which you broke into without invitation, assassin. You are in no position to-" Soft stopped, then briefly inhaled and exhaled. "We can discuss it later."

"Butcher... that makes far too much sense." Soft muttered. "Come, let us go back to the tavern before someone does something stupid."


"This is progress."

Reflection strode towards the Elemental, she didn't know enough about this places power structure to jump to any conclusions. She was about to try to poke around for some information, maybe a temple she could start looking into. This was as good a lead as any though. She didn't know who those other two would be heroes where but there was no use in letting anyone else get hurt. On the other hand... More help was good, and there where lives on the line. "Alright, uh, 'Saint'. Come on, if you wanna help stay with me, don't go running off the more we have the better our chances." And the better, so she could ensure no would be hero got themselves killed. "And you... big guy! You say you work for some Stark? Where are they? He's a sorcerer I assume? That'd be useful."


The dull thwack of Saint's palm hitting his forehead is the only immediate response he gives to the hubbub of the room, and he shoots Usho a sympathetic look. When Reflection speaks, he decides to focus on that instead. Being ordered around isn't really ideal, but... the monk is honestly impressive, with that weapon of hers. Saint finds himself wondering if he can learn to channel a bit of that effortless, heroic arrogance.

"Well, alright. The more the merrier!"


Stark stands there confused for 2 seconds until he tries to grab something on his left, that is no longer there. Realizing his sword is currently with the tavern he steps forward falls on one knee in front of the Dragon-Blooded and Vor holding up his shield where his sword should be.

Honorable Dragon, I am Stark of Varlok servant of Vor.
The eternal bringer of the Flamestone and Master of Vor is not with us in this city, but I shall be of service if you wish?

"THE COLD DOES NOT BOTHER ME." Vors rumbled. "WE SHOULD LEAVE QUICKLY SO AS TO FIND THIS 'WARDEN' AS SOON AS POSSIBLE."

Right about the point he said that, three men came down and into the tavern. One, you had all already seen; Brandr. The second was a relaxed, unassuming man wearing an ancient outfit tied with a night-black leather belt. The outfit was made of silk and scaled animal skins, and was tied with a leather belt as black as night. Some of you may have seen him earlier, but none of you saw him leave. The third was a handsome southern man with astrological tattoos on his neck, wearing an open robe that was probably not warm enough for this enviornment, let alone the situation they found themselves in.

The workers sprung to attention. Rose stammered. "S-sir, we have this under control-"

"Yes Rose, I can see that." Soft's eyes found Butcher before too long, and they narrowed. "You've been threatening my patrons, Butcher?"

The man scowled. "What of it? He wasn't under your prote-"

"Everyone in this tavern is under my protection. The only reason you're not being thrown out that door is because we have a bigger crisis to deal with. If you're smart you'll run the second the fires come back up... Now. Where's the little thief you were hunting? Because if the Warden has responded in such extreme measures I cannot imagine all that happened was he showed up and ran away."

Ilari shrank back, away from the crowd.

[Eurus]

Saint of Heroes twitches in surprise, then looks at Ilari. "Oh, yeah. Look, if you do know something about this, could you tell us before we go? Might help us fix this mess. I promise, I'll keep your name out of it, I'm no snitch."

Activating Harmonious Presence Meditation, and trying to persuade Ilari to tell Saint if he knows anything that might be connected to this disaster.

Presence (4) Charisma (2) HPM (3) Stunt (2)
[roll0]

[Apogee1]

"So you do think it was the warden who killed the flames. That's ... extreme," says Allev, looking concerned at the prospect.

"Regardless, I will go with the rest of you. I'd hope to be of service in warding off the cold or providing aid if it starts to harm you." With the apparent group of those heading to the warden expanding, he hedges, not very inconspicuously, away from Reflection and keeps shooting glances over towards Vor.

[HalfTangible]

Saint of Heroes twitches in surprise, then looks at Ilari. "Oh, yeah. Look, if you do know something about this, could you tell us before we go? Might help us fix this mess. I promise, I'll keep your name out of it, I'm no snitch."

Activating Harmonious Presence Meditation, and trying to persuade Ilari to tell Saint if he knows anything that might be connected to this disaster.

Presence (4) Charisma (2) HPM (3) Stunt (2)
[roll0]


"So you do think it was the warden who killed the flames. That's ... extreme," says Allev, looking concerned at the prospect.

"Regardless, I will go with the rest of you. I'd hope to be of service in warding off the cold or providing aid if it starts to harm you." With the apparent group of those heading to the warden expanding, he hedges, not very inconspicuously, away from Reflection and keeps shooting glances over towards Vor.

"IT IS APPRECIATED, MORTAL." Vors' voice rumbles, more like a miniature earthquake than a voice.

When Saint speaks, he immediately catches Ilari's attention. There's a moment where guilt and fear flicker across his face. He looks away, unsure.

"I..." He begins, before glancing back towards the others in the room, some of whom are listening now. He then looks to his hands, shaking his head. "Nothing else, I'm sorry. I could give you a path into his Court, if that would help."

Soft Whispers glances at him a moment, frowning... then he shrugs, satisfied. "You're either telling the truth or a good enough liar to be commended. Either way..." He glances back at the others. "Perhaps I should stay here. You all seem quite capable, and I think I could do more good keeping an eye on this group than running out to face a god in his own court." He glances at Brandr with a knowing look.

Brandr, you know what that look means despite being unsure precisely how you know: "If Ilari becomes part of the Warden's bargain for whatever reason, we will need to know where he is and he will need to be alive."

[Justanotherhero]

Gazing upwards to Vor:
"As you wish, Sir!"

Stark turns his head and seeks approval in the eyes of the Dragon-Bloodeds before rising from the ground.

[Eurus]

Saint nods to Ilari, and gives him a clap on the shoulder. It's the only way he can think of to be encouraging.

"A way in would help, yeah!"

[WarDragon]

Brandr nods subtly in answer to Whispers, then more firmly at Ilari. "Good man, for telling us what you know. A path to the court would be useful, though if we try to sneak in, the warden will likely attack on sight. We should try to approach him openly first, and see if he's on a war footing. If he's nto, then skulking about will only make him lash out."

[HalfTangible]

Gazing upwards to Vor:
"As you wish, Sir!"

Stark turns his head and seeks approval in the eyes of the Dragon-Bloodeds before rising from the ground.


Saint nods to Ilari, and gives him a clap on the shoulder. It's the only way he can think of to be encouraging.

"A way in would help, yeah!"


Brandr nods subtly in answer to Whispers, then more firmly at Ilari. "Good man, for telling us what you know. A path to the court would be useful, though if we try to sneak in, the warden will likely attack on sight. We should try to approach him openly first, and see if he's on a war footing. If he's nto, then skulking about will only make him lash out."

"Uh, well, I went in sneaky." Ilari admitted. "You may not want this to be your first go, if you want to be peaceful... but I'm pretty sure he didn't see where I came in, so..."

Ilari then gives a brief explanation of the court. It was originally used as a place to process prisoners, but has since been converted into more a gothic temple. It was a grand stone structure, but fitting its master it was large, intimidating and dark. It was not the sort of grand cathedral you might find in Whitewall; it was harsh, ugly, and vicious. It had been built with the millennia in mind by an architect whose name has been lost to history, and since then has had many additions and repairs.

However, not all of the construction was put together equally as well. There was a fire in one of the kitchens a time ago that had lead the Warden to build out one of the walls with wood, making the kitchen as ugly as possible in a deliberate insult to Zenmul. However, this section of the wall was very weak and easy to slip past; he gives you instructions on a way to pry part of the wall open and slip inside. The fact that Ilari knew this way in was (he thought) one of the reasons Zenmul assigned him to this task.

"-and then just pop it back into place on your way out." Ilari finished. "Remember, third board. You'll have to go through one at a time..." He glances at Vors. "And I don't think he'll fit at all."

[Eurus]

"Interesting..."

Saint of Heroes's response trails off, as memories bubble up in his head. Then he suddenly twitches back to alertness and laughs nervously.

"I mean, uh... useful as a backup plan. Because we're totally not the types to sneak into temples habitually, right? That wouldn't be very heroic. But if he's got the place locked down and he's not taking visitors, well, then we just don't have a choice."

[Justanotherhero]

"A mighty city god like this should maybe not be angered. I believe an open approach might appease this god more."

[WarDragon]

"He's the Warden of a prison that's not a prison anymore. He's always angry," Brandr advises. "If he's not behind the loss of the fires, he'll probably be looking for someone to blame. Let's not make him think we're it."

The warrior tightens his armored coat. "Everyone ready? Dress as warm as you can, and let's get going."

[DrakeRaids]

"It's odd though isn't it?"

"God's like Temples. God's like cults. Like would worship. What's worth murdering all those who'd venerate you over...? Unless it's a bluff. And he's trying to force people to come groveling to him."

Reflections considered that. God's often made poor choices though. It was a small pay of why creation was so messed up. "Eh, it probably doesn't matter. If this Warden has answers he'll give them to us if I have to beat them out of him."

[HalfTangible]

Usho places a hand on Saint's shoulder. "Good luck, man. I'll see you when you get back."

As the group - not yet a Circle, but no longer strangers - sets out from the warm but cooling building, the sun is cresting below the horizon. The trek towards the center of the city is a long and cold one, each of you bracing against the biting wind. As you travel on the streets, you see no people going about their business. Once or twice you see a frozen body on the ground; those you check are already dead. Once or twice, you think you see a ghost, but it's gone before you have time to blink. Barbed wire and the occasional swinging of chains remind you of this place's status as a former prison; the very air seems to weigh on you, oppressive and dark.

As the hour it will take you to reach the Court of Chains drags on, the wind starts to cut to your bones. It's going to be a cold night.

The cold cuts deep. Roll Stamina + Resistance, TN 4 to resist the cold.

On a failure, take 2 dice of environmental damage; damage is lethal but 10s are not doubled.

[Volthawk]

As the group leaves the tavern, Larin shrugs. "If he managed to get in undetected, it would be child's play for me to do the same. Nonetheless...I'll defer to the judgement of the majority on this. One thing for the newcomers to the city to remember, though. This is not the Warden's city. That...honour...falls on another."

His gaze drifts downwards for a moment, before looking back up at the others, not saying the thought that followed. If the Warden wasn't responsible, he had a good guess who was, but...he hoped they didn't even have to think about doing that.

He'd grown up in this city, and thought he'd gotten used to the cold, but tonight was something else. Luckily, he'd arrived to the tavern in a heavy cloak, and although it was more intended to disguise his outfit than warmth, as they walked he appreciated the warmth it provided, although some techniques the Order had taught certainly helped as well.

[Justanotherhero]

Stark pits on his thick fur coat and nods in the direction of Vor.
"Sir, I will succeed!"

Protect her until I come back and report what you hear and see in that time.

Looking to Larin: "If this city has another ruler should we not inform him instead?"

--------------

Trailing though the cold Stark pulls his thick coat and hat deeper into his face and prays he may soon leave the cold While walking as fast as reasonably possible and staying behind the earth dragon blooded. Clearly showing submission and breaking the cold wind does not hurt


Stamina 4 + Stunt 2
[roll0]

[Eurus]

Saint gives Usho a quick clasp on his forearm, the same gesture of affection and caution that they used to exchange as a street gang. He leans in and quietly mutters. "Keep an eye on the kid, okay? If he bolts for it, or someone tries to hurt him... use your best judgment."

He trusts Usho to do what he can without getting himself killed. Fortunately, the stinging cold and heavy darkness is enough of a distraction that he can't actually spare much time for worrying about the people back at the speakeasy. It's not the first night he's spent in the cold, but normally he'd be sensible enough to huddle up somewhere out of the wind... this frankly sucks, and he grumbles under his breath about it as he moves with the group, stuffing his hands into his pockets and trying to keep his blood pumping.

Resistance 3 + Stamina 3 + Stunt 2

[roll0]

[WarDragon]

Brandr has felt cold far worse than this, but usually with the option of growing fur. Still, he makes an effort not to let any discomfort show, drawing upon his reserve of essence to inure his flesh to the cold. It would be unthinkable to show weakness in front of the Immaculate at this stage.

6 successes on the Resistance roll. Used an Excellency, with Personal motes, since I decided it'd be beneath Brandr's dignity to fail this roll.

"No one sees the true god of Fortitude. It dwells in the darkness beneath the city. It's the reason every man in this city believes he's born cursed," he replies to Stark's question.

[Apogee1]

Oh gods. Oh gods. Not a single part of him was warm. Clutching his layers of robes around him (which suddenly seemed altogether insufficient), Allev shivered and shuffled as the group set off for the court of chains. He would definitely would need to invest in a few heavier layers if the cold continued until tomorrow.

As the group continued, the cold, if anything, got worse. Hunched over towards the rear of the small group, he focused on nothing but trying and failing to stay warm. Allev, discreetly, tried to use some anima to warm himself, but even the gift of the sun seemed unable to do anything to this cold.

Thankfully, it didn't seem like he was experiencing the symptoms of frostbite or hypothermia, but that was thin comfort in the moment.

[HalfTangible]

Usho nods as Saint steps out. Vors moves to stand with Alvar and Redtooth, and they give you secretive nods. Alvar glares at Rose for some reason.

---

Most of you deal with the cold well enough. Marius pulls his fur cloak tighter around him but handles the cold well enough; Lanin does much the same with his own cloak. Saint of Heroes braces every time there's a gust of wind, but is otherwise unbowed. Brandr doesn't even seem to notice the cold. Reflection isn't native to the city, but she walks like one who has lived in this place her whole life.

Alleviating Hands Unyielding, you are not so stoic. You have lived in Fortitude all your life, so you're used to cold nights. However, usually when it gets this cold you've found a way inside to wait out the storm. Partway through the walk, you notice that one of the bodies in the snow is still twitching, and as you go to help, your hand releases your cloak. At the same time, a gust of wind you weren't prepared for buffets you, tearing off your cloak and sending it hurtling through the air; in the darkness you lose sight of it almost immediately. The body you check is, unfortunately, already dead; perhaps you imagined it moving.

Fortunately, while your medical knowledge can't assist the dead, it can assist you. You control your breathing, posture, arm and hand positioning to keep the warmth in. It doesn't beat a coat or a warm fire, but it's something.

((Allev, you take a -2 dice penalty on your next action due to the cold.))

[HalfTangible]

The Court of Chains

As you make your way through the city, the Court of Chains eventually becomes obvious; it is one of the only buildings you've seen that still has the glow of a hearth fire within. The building itself is a dark obsidian stone, in the ancient style of the fallen empire that built this place. It is a design full of ridges and spines, with an arched doorway and windows. Like every such portal you've seen in this city, there are iron bars over the windows. As the group gets closer, they find several men and women chained outside of the building. Their heads are bowed, and you can see some of them crying. Most of them are wearing little save that which covers their modesty, yet the frost does not seem to stick to them.

You've arrived at the front door to the Court of Chains. No one seems to have noticed you yet, and these prisoners do not seem inclined to raise any kind of alarm as of yet. Strangely, the courtyard (heh) is not suffering the worst of the cold. It isn't exactly pleasant, but it's enough that you no longer need to fear hypothermia.

You have several avenues of entry you can try, or you can search for a new one. What do you do?

[Eurus]

At the sight of the strange, fire-lit building, Saint of Heroes stiffens. When he sees the strange penitents in the courtyard, his eyes narrow.

"So the Warden still has fire, huh? I guess that pretty much proves it. He's either responsible for whatever's happening, or could stop it but is choosing to ignore it."

With only a moment's consideration, he storms forward toward the chained people, then leans down to inspect their chains, looking for any locks. He's vaguely aware that this is not the way to make a good impression on the god, but the little glowing coal of anger in his chest is stopping him from caring.

[WarDragon]

"Or maybe he can only protect his own court. Either way, if you want to **** the Warden off, I can't think of a better way than trying to free his prisoners," Brandr says in a warning tone. "In his eyes, at least, they all did something to deserve this. Are you sure you want to start things off with a fight?"

[DrakeRaids]

"Always talk first. It's better to try and find diplomatic solution if you can. Fighting causes collateral, often for people who are just trying to live their lives."

Her hand gripped around her tetsubo despite her words, which had a slightly haunted edge to them. Quieter, and more serious than she had seemed before. Memories. Bad ones. She shook it off. "Lets not go in sneaking like thieves. Come on." She approached the temple with the same confidence she had been wearing in the tavern, glancing at the chained people beside the temple, and frowning. She may be able to do something about that but... priorities. The temple first and talk to the god. She expected the others to walk with her, she didn't have many suspicions about them, aside from Brandr but, again, priorities.

[Justanotherhero]

"Are the laws they enforce here not Imperial laws?Since the chosen are rulers should the Warden not simply listen to the chosen?"

Stark takes his shield of his back and follows Reflection with a 2 to 3 meter distance while looking around for danger. A little bit of hope on his face for a diplomatic solution.

[Volthawk]

Larin chuckles at the things the foreigners come out with, deciding to walk in the front door with them rather than taking a covert route. "Things don't work the same in this city as they might elsewhere. As far as anyone else is concerned, they're getting what they want from the mines, and so long as that keeps going, we can rot. Only time you see the Realm around these parts is when some gangs get together and decide the best use of their power is random raiding and cause enough trouble for a legion or some other army or militia to come over and put them down. We don't have a high authority to plead to, nobody the Warden would listen to, we have to do it ourselves." But if things were different...today just served as an example how his vision was necessary for the city.

[Apogee1]

“Yeah. Whatever law and order may have existed in this city isn’t really around anymore. The ‘enforcers’ who should be the force of justice are no more than another gang at this point."

Allev still looks terrible, but he perks up as he sees that there are indeed fires and warmth where they are heading. He follows the group as they plan to head in the front entrance.

[HalfTangible]

At the sight of the strange, fire-lit building, Saint of Heroes stiffens. When he sees the strange penitents in the courtyard, his eyes narrow.

"So the Warden still has fire, huh? I guess that pretty much proves it. He's either responsible for whatever's happening, or could stop it but is choosing to ignore it."

With only a moment's consideration, he storms forward toward the chained people, then leans down to inspect their chains, looking for any locks. He's vaguely aware that this is not the way to make a good impression on the god, but the little glowing coal of anger in his chest is stopping him from caring.


"Or maybe he can only protect his own court. Either way, if you want to **** the Warden off, I can't think of a better way than trying to free his prisoners," Brandr says in a warning tone. "In his eyes, at least, they all did something to deserve this. Are you sure you want to start things off with a fight?"


"Always talk first. It's better to try and find diplomatic solution if you can. Fighting causes collateral, often for people who are just trying to live their lives."

Her hand gripped around her tetsubo despite her words, which had a slightly haunted edge to them. Quieter, and more serious than she had seemed before. Memories. Bad ones. She shook it off. "Lets not go in sneaking like thieves. Come on." She approached the temple with the same confidence she had been wearing in the tavern, glancing at the chained people beside the temple, and frowning. She may be able to do something about that but... priorities. The temple first and talk to the god. She expected the others to walk with her, she didn't have many suspicions about them, aside from Brandr but, again, priorities.


"Are the laws they enforce here not Imperial laws?Since the chosen are rulers should the Warden not simply listen to the chosen?"

Stark takes his shield of his back and follows Reflection with a 2 to 3 meter distance while looking around for danger. A little bit of hope on his face for a diplomatic solution.


Larin chuckles at the things the foreigners come out with, deciding to walk in the front door with them rather than taking a covert route. "Things don't work the same in this city as they might elsewhere. As far as anyone else is concerned, they're getting what they want from the mines, and so long as that keeps going, we can rot. Only time you see the Realm around these parts is when some gangs get together and decide the best use of their power is random raiding and cause enough trouble for a legion or some other army or militia to come over and put them down. We don't have a high authority to plead to, nobody the Warden would listen to, we have to do it ourselves." But if things were different...today just served as an example how his vision was necessary for the city.


“Yeah. Whatever law and order may have existed in this city isn’t really around anymore. The ‘enforcers’ who should be the force of justice are no more than another gang at this point."

Allev still looks terrible, but he perks up as he sees that there are indeed fires and warmth where they are heading. He follows the group as they plan to head in the front entrance.

Saint goes to inspect the chains, and the woman he's looking over glances up at him. She doesn't speak, but there's an apprehensive look in her eyes. The chains don't seem to have any locks, nor the manacles. You're not sure how they're meant to come undone.

As the group enters the building, the chill of the outside fades away. It's still not comfortable, but it's clear that the Court is being kept just warm enough for those within to keep from freezing. A pair of men in lamellar armor spring to attention when you enter, and each readies a spear.

You find yourself not in a temple for worship, but a courtroom, with a bench for a jury, many chairs out for witnesses and persecution. The room is just cold and drab enough to be uncomfortable, and though it would house plenty, no one is in here save for the two guards accosting you. At the seat for the judge, you see a divine figure standing and floating over towards you, scraping chains against the stone of the floor. "At ease, Shungnis, Osirle."

The Warden Urias floats a bit above the stones of the Court, a chill wind holding him aloft. He wears a tattered, ragged cloak from which a number of iron chains dangle and twist in an unseen wind. Manacles adorn each wrist, both of them attached to another around his neck. You cannot see his face, but you can see a pair of eyes, bloodshot with cyan irises. His eyes rake across each of you, and you feel his cold gaze bare your souls.

"An interesting collection of criminals and ner-do-wells." The Keeper growls. "Have you come to bargain for your own miserable lives?"

The Warden is spending 8 motes to use Guilt Weighs Down. He can use a Read Intentions action to sense the general nature of your characters' criminal history (though not specifics) for the rest of the scene. In addition, he gains an additional die on a Read Intentions action related to investigating any crime you may have committed.

[Justanotherhero]

Follwing behind Reflection Stark appears to be a rather usual Mortal. Seeing the gaze of this Divine figure and looking over Relections should Stark does not look away but answers The Wardens gaze with a confidence belies most humble mortals.

"I do not claim innocence. I do not claim goodness. I follow those worthy of following. And aim to do the right thing."

With that Stark would like to appear as a die Hard Unconquered Sun loyalist whose rebellion against the Realm and crimes are not in Fact to keep himself alive but to restore the world to Law and Order.

Afterwards before any of the others can look back the mere mortal begins staring at the floor again.

[Eurus]

Bands of shadows cling to Saint of Heroes under the god's eyes, his crimes obvious and many, ranging from petty theft to heresy against the gods. Written out, his crimes would fill yards and yards of parchment. There is, however, no blood on his hands.

Saint of Heroes feels his mouth get dry in apprehension. He has little fondness or respect for gods, but then, one needn't respect a wild tiger to have a healthy caution when face to face with one. He holds onto the anger that he felt looking at the chained penitents, and tries to pull himself together.

"We're here for the lives of everyone, Warden. Countless people will die in the cold tonight, if the fires don't come back."

[Volthawk]

Larin's killed people for a variety of reasons, both personal and impersonal. He's committed other crimes, of course, but they're somewhat small compared to the main course when you're talking about what an assassin has done.

Larin hangs back a little, letting the more virtuous among them speak up first. It probably wouldn't do for someone like him to draw attention to himself in front of the Warden, but he still felt like he had to be here. Talking it out might fail, after all, and in that case he'd have to deal with things his way. For now, his attention is on the room they're in, looking across the room to pick out useful cover in case he needs to be rather more sneaky about things in the future.

[WarDragon]

Brandr's been a gang member since he was a child. He's stolen, fought, killed and raided the countryside at the head of his band.

"I'm sure I'm guilty as sin in your eyes, for what I had to do to survive." Survive and thrive, he thinks. He very carefully doesn't point his spear at Urias, but isn't about to set it down either.

"But we're here tonight on behalf of all of Fortitude. This one's right, many won't see the morning without heat. And your court is the only place we've seen that still has flames; can you restore them to the people, or do we need to go down into the Dark Below to find the source of the curse?" He watches for any sign of sympathy to their cause or that their words make an impact; is there anything to reach here, or merely a fanatic?

9 successes on my own Read Intentions back at him. Spent 5m Personal.

[HalfTangible]

"YOU come to bargain for the sake of this city, Brandr? You did not merely 'survive', you led your little gang out into the wastes of the North. You escaped this prison only to commit greater atrocities, proving why the world has gods like me in the first place. Your hands drip with the blood of those you have slain and the rightful earnings you have stolen from others. And you claim to care about the living?"

He turns to Saint of Heroes. "You reek of theft. It is not merely an act you took in desperation, you reveled in it. Do you think trying to pass yourself off as a hero now erases the sins of your past? Do you think refusing to kill makes your hands clean?"

His eyes turn to Marius. "... Hmph. Crime committed for a good cause remains crime. You cannot restore law and order by breaking it."

"Do not think you have slipped past my notice, Taran Lanin of the Order Below. Your activities are known to me and your own hands drip with blood even now. Hope against all hope that you do not become the worst problem I need to deal with." Urias' eyes narrow. "The criminals always think they've gotten away until they are arrested."

"The thief that took what is mine knows what he did. He knows why the city is going to freeze and that he must come to me to stop it. Everything that happens tonight is on his hands. Unless he wishes to walk alone in a field of frozen corpses, he will return here."

Brandr, you can tell that Urias is furious. When you and the others speak of people freezing to death without the fires... you can see regret in his eyes, but not guilt, nor concern. He views this apparent curse as necessary. From his other comments, you can tell that he views this as akin to smoking prey out of hiding; your gang occasionally did similar things when trying to hunt animals, or even when attacking other people. He has the Major Principle: "No criminal can go unpunished." and the Major Tie: Fortitude (Protective Ownership).

"And what of you two?" He glances between Allev and Reflections. "Come to plead your innocence?"

[DrakeRaids]

"By Hesiesh's ****** ****."

Reflection cupped her face in her hands as she took a deep, long suffering sigh. She had hoped to talk but she had forgotten how gods got sometimes. Honestly, as rough as some of her time in the Order had been, as much regrets as she had in places of it, she didn't regret forcing Gods to not cause problems for literally everything around them. It was to bad she didn't know Water style, or was better at dealing with forcing spirits to manifest. She should probably be more diplomatic now but in her defense she was:

1. Cold because she was in the dragons forsaken north.

2. Hungry because she had never gotten to finish her soup because fate hated her

3. Was being screamed at by an incoherent god

All things considered this probably rated somewhere in her top ten worst nights.

"I'm not here to plead anything to you. You don't have the authority to measure my sins Warden. Someday someone will. But it's not here. And it's not now. So instead of flipping out at us, who are unrelated to your theft problem, why don't you start by maybe telling us what was stolen from you so we can, I don't know, start looking at a peaceful orderly solution. You like order."

[HalfTangible]

"By Hesiesh's ****** ****."

Reflection cupped her face in her hands as she took a deep, long suffering sigh. She had hoped to talk but she had forgotten how gods got sometimes. Honestly, as rough as some of her time in the Order had been, as much regrets as she had in places of it, she didn't regret forcing Gods to not cause problems for literally everything around them. It was to bad she didn't know Water style, or was better at dealing with forcing spirits to manifest. She should probably be more diplomatic now but in her defense she was:

1. Cold because she was in the dragons forsaken north.

2. Hungry because she had never gotten to finish her soup because fate hated her

3. Was being screamed at by an incoherent god

All things considered this probably rated somewhere in her top ten worst nights.

"I'm not here to plead anything to you. You don't have the authority to measure my sins Warden. Someday someone will. But it's not here. And it's not now. So instead of flipping out at us, who are unrelated to your theft problem, why don't you start by maybe telling us what was stolen from you so we can, I don't know, start looking at a peaceful orderly solution. You like order."

"You dare!" One of the guards shouts and readies his weapon. "Our master has every right to-"

"Put the spear away Osirle, you are not helping! His eyes narrow, and his tone loses much of its anger. "... Very well. You remain a Prince of the Earth. If you must know, I received a gift, from the hands of the Unconquered Sun Himself. A reward for my service to heaven through the centuries, and more importantly, a weapon to be used in the years ahead. Zenmul, petty little toad that he is, saw my gift meant to protect this city as an opportunity to grow his own powerbase. And so he had his little lackey steal it from me. He denies it, of course."

His eyes narrow again. "Now that slop peddler has what is mine. Probably just going to consolidate his gang's power. Fool."

"But why should this matter to any of you?" He growls, raking his eyes over the group. "Murderers, thieves, gangsters... you'd sooner take my weapon for yourselves than return it to me."

[DrakeRaids]

"Honestly? Your weapon doesn't matter to me, Warden. I'm sure its an incredible piece, a token of memory and wonder. But I don't want it. I'm a Dragon. And I have a duty. And what I care about is all the innocent people who are currently freezing to death. Even if you get this back the entire city is going to be against you when it's over. What kind of worship will you gain you think, from an angry vengeful city?" Reflection sighed and leaned against her massive weapon, "There's a better way. Give me three days. Three days to resolve the situation to your approval. Return the lights, the fire. Stop people from dying. And let us find your relic. If I fail then you can return to plan A of, smother the city until you get what you want. How does that sound?"

[Eurus]

Saint of Heroes resists the urge to glance furtively at his own weapon, which was stolen from a temple. He doesn't have much of a leg to stand on, here. But this is a bad situation, if they really don't have the stolen object. He rubs his face, muttering.

"What a mess... he's really going to threaten the lives of every person in this city because of his gift? What a terrible guardian."

[Volthawk]

Breaking his silence up to this point, Larin laughs. "For all the insight you claim to have on me, you've failed to actually understand anything. You may see who I am and what I've done, but you know nothing about why."

Looking up at the god, anger starts to enter a voice that's typically rather calm. "You just sit there doing nothing, playing your role in this city's decay, all the while claiming righteousness and superiority over all others, and then you condemn someone like me who works to bring about change, just because you find the means distasteful. And now, as soon as someone angers you, you throw your pretenses of justice and righteousness away to kill more people than most of those you brand murderers? Pathetic. At least the rest of us have the decency to look upon those we kill, and accept what it is we do, and we know who they are. You have no idea who you're killing, do you? I bet you don't even care if a hundred, if a thousand innocents die, so long as you get what you want. Some lawman."

Pausing for a moment to mentally catch up with a response that ended up longer and more charged than he thought it would, Larin sighs. "Let me tell you three things: A frozen Fortitude is not part of my vision of the future, I have enough in the way of weapons without stealing yours, and whatever you think of me I want what's best for this city. You can keep your gifts and keep being useless, so long as you stop murdering the people." As he finishes, the air around him begins to shimmer with a pale gold and the golden circle of the Night Caste shines through his hood and mask. Hmph. He was usually better at keeping his displays under control than this. The Warden had definitely gotten him riled up.

[Justanotherhero]

"I shall aid in this noble quest blessed by Dragon and God alike!"

With that Stark does two steps forward between The Warden and Reflection lays down his shield draws his sword and kneels raising his blade horizontally to the height of his head.

"Three days and nights to return what has been taken to it`s proper owner. Three days and nights of assured flame and light to bring justice. Should it fail the flames may extinguish. Should it succeed the Dragon will have brought order to chaos.Is this not a just path forward?"

I do not think that they understand why this is so bad. If you were so generous to explain the harm such a gift might cause. Maybe they will understand why it must be guarded and that the Unconquered Sun does not gift trinkets.

Gazing upward in first Reflections face and then the Wardens face Stark seeks lies in the gods words honing his hearing to adapt to this unusual being.

[Apogee1]

Allev's hands are fairly clean. Battery (in self defense). One or two incidences of breach of contract. A single theft three years ago.

You, Warden, should know that I've likely given back for every crime I've done threefold. And this fit of yours isn't going to harm the thieves, the leaders of the gangs you stand opposed to but instead indiscriminately kill across the city. What does it say that you would condemn the city to a field of frozen corpses as you so eloquently described murdering thousands for the sake of catching one criminal? Is that justice?


Allev looks more hale in the warmth, and slowly anger creeps over his features as the Warden talks so dismissively about condemning the city to freeze.

As the three day plan is presented, Allev nods to the idea, and seems to be preparing himself to speak. But when Larin's anima flairs, he drops back half a step and glances between Reflection and the Warden, hand creeping towards his sword.

[HalfTangible]

Allev's hands are fairly clean. Battery (in self defense). One or two incidences of breach of contract. A single theft three years ago.

You, Warden, should know that I've likely given back for every crime I've done threefold. And this fit of yours isn't going to harm the thieves, the leaders of the gangs you stand opposed to but instead indiscriminately kill across the city. What does it say that you would condemn the city to a field of frozen corpses as you so eloquently described murdering thousands for the sake of catching one criminal? Is that justice?


Allev looks more hale in the warmth, and slowly anger creeps over his features as the Warden talks so dismissively about condemning the city to freeze.

As the three day plan is presented, Allev nods to the idea, and seems to be preparing himself to speak. But when Larin's anima flairs, he drops back half a step and glances between Reflection and the Warden, hand creeping towards his sword.

He glances at Alleviating Hands Unyielding. "...... could be worse I suppose. You are Alleviating Hands Unyielding, yes? I considered recruiting you as one of my men... but this is a bad time. We can talk later."

"The goal is not to harm the thief, it is to smoke him out of his hiding place. I need him found and brought to me - or at least what he stole - before I can risk letting fires burn again. My guards have warmth of their own, and they are scouring the city for him."


"Honestly? Your weapon doesn't matter to me, Warden. I'm sure its an incredible piece, a token of memory and wonder. But I don't want it. I'm a Dragon. And I have a duty. And what I care about is all the innocent people who are currently freezing to death. Even if you get this back the entire city is going to be against you when it's over. What kind of worship will you gain you think, from an angry vengeful city?" Reflection sighed and leaned against her massive weapon, "There's a better way. Give me three days. Three days to resolve the situation to your approval. Return the lights, the fire. Stop people from dying. And let us find your relic. If I fail then you can return to plan A of, smother the city until you get what you want. How does that sound?"

"I cannot return the fires while the thief remains at large. If I do that, then the criminal will simply flee with his ill-gotten prize." The Keeper points out. "Yes, my worship will, perhaps, lessen for a time. But I am hardly the first god to punish mortals, least of all in the north. This weapon is worth the cost, I assure you. I lost a great deal to get it here."


Breaking his silence up to this point, Larin laughs. "For all the insight you claim to have on me, you've failed to actually understand anything. You may see who I am and what I've done, but you know nothing about why."

"You just sit there doing nothing, playing your role in this city's decay, all the while claiming righteousness and superiority over all others, and then you condemn someone like me who works to bring about change, just because you find the means distasteful. And now, as soon as someone angers you, you throw your pretenses of justice and righteousness away to kill more people than most of those you brand murderers? Pathetic. At least the rest of us have the decency to look upon those we kill, and accept what it is we do, and we know who they are. You have no idea who you're killing, do you? I bet you don't even care if a hundred, if a thousand innocents die, so long as you get what you want. Some lawman."

"Let me tell you three things: A frozen Fortitude is not part of my vision of the future, I have enough in the way of weapons without stealing yours, and whatever you think of me I want what's best for this city. You can keep your gifts and keep being useless, so long as you stop murdering the people."

As the golden circle fades into life on Larin's forehead, the guards gasp, and the Keeper's eyes widen.

"A... anathema..." Osirle whispers, glancing to Shungnis. They both back away. "Wretched..."

For a moment, Keeper stands stunned by what he sees and what he is hearing.

Then... the air grows cold. "... Your hypocrisy knows no bounds, Iron Wolf."

"You are guilty of every crime you accuse me of and more." Keeper growls, "You 'kill to bring about change' - or more accurately commit cold-blooded murder - and then cry when I attempt to smoke out a criminal in my own city, as is my right? Your murders have no justification. Your opinion matters not to me, and without the moral fiber to back it up your anger rings hollow."

"The one beneath has seen horrors coming for us, things that mortals were never meant to stand against. I must restore order to my city, no matter the cost, if we are to have any chance of holding back the tide that comes for us. There is no other path. We need unity, we need strength, we need law and order."

"What we do not need is yet another gang of criminals with the power to reshape the world on their side! I need the Exigence returned to me or Fortitude will fall, just as Thorns, Skullstone and others before it!!"

Lanin beat Keeper's resolve. The Keeper will enter a decision point, then spend 1wp and cite "Fortitude (Protective Ownership)" to resist the persuasion.

[Justanotherhero]

As he finishes, the air around him begins to shimmer with a pale gold and the golden circle of the Night Caste shines through his hood and mask. Hmph. He was usually better at keeping his displays under control than this. The Warden had definitely gotten him riled up.

Stark noticing a light that was not there before raises his head a little then alot. And begins to stare while his body freezes.

[DrakeRaids]

Malfeas below.

Normally, she would be pretty happy about finding a Solar. It meant her job was a lot easier, but there where some situations that made things complicated. In a place like this, it meant that she was caught between blowing her cover because the stupid- no, the Illuminated Teachings said they where all wise and powerful. Even if they sometimes did really frustrating things that meant she had to do a lot more work and figure out a new way to approach the situation. As a supposed 'Immaculate' then she should respond violently right now. She could potentially do so in a way that would even prevent her from having to kill this dumba-wise god king. Plus there was the 'almost certainly a lunar' dude waiting and watching in the wings.

But that would render attempts to speak reasonably to him on rather shaky ground down the line. Worse, this would make extracting him from the city difficult as well if this got out. Her mind was desperately trying to come up with some perfect clever ruse that would work. Syl would be able to come up with something. But while she was a decent liar, she just, at the end of the day, wasn't that smart at working her way out of these situations. She had a more straightforward approach usually. The worst part is she could almost see the solution. Some quote from the Creed about preserving mortals first or something but she couldn't get there in time.

One of them was already inching for a sword and everyone was shouting. She had to diffuse.

"I know where your thief is."

Her voice rose up, "I didn't think much of it at at the time, but it makes sense now. I can potentially return it to. But that is on the condition the fires are returned now. Otherwise you're on your own. As for you," She turned towards the solar and... Raised both her palms up, a gesture of a peace. "Not your enemy Night Caste. We need to have a chat later. I think you'll be interested by what I have to say. Are you the one Syls contacted?"

[Eurus]

Saint of Heroes' mouth opens and closes wordlessly, as he tries to process the sight of a Solar mark. When he can think straight, his first thought is...

...Oh come on! How am I supposed to be a hero here if I have to deal with this kind of competition?!

In some sense, it was encouraging to know that he was in the right place. After all, if all these important people were here in Fortitude, then Fortitude must be an important place. But it was demoralizing, too...

The valiant hero, terrific warrior of the north, does not sulk. But you might be forgiven for thinking that, if you looked at him.

[Volthawk]

Larin sighs again. "Very well. If pretending you have moral superiority despite what you've done is what it takes to deal with this problem and stop you from doing this, I'll go along with it." He shrugs. "One last piece of advice, though. If you want to actually solve whatever this greater problem is, though, you won't manage to get the city under control with your current line of thinking. They've seen too much in the way of brute force and threats, the fact that it comes from you and this weapon of yours won't make things too different. You'll just end up failing or ruling over a dead city. If you ever feel like sharing what the threat is, and your pride doesn't blind you to any other way, I'll be ready to listen."

Having said his piece, Larin steps back, hoping the get the conversation back on track. He just gives a small shrug and a quick "Perhaps." in response to Reflection's question - he wasn't sure who this Syls was, her name not coming up in any of his spies' reports or his own investigations, so until he was more sure about the situation he didn't want to commit one way or the other. He'd made himself more exposed than he would've liked there, and didn't want to make that error worse if he could help it.

[WarDragon]

Brandr strives to present a bold front, but in truth he's more than a little surprised at the revelations being tossed about. Not least of which is that the Warden talks to the God Below. A Solar? Shahan-ya Spider King told me about them.... what does this mean for my plans?

"I never claimed innocence, or even any particular benevolence, but I do claim to care about this city. It's my home as much as anyone's. Or if you'll only believe a selfish motive of me, I'd like to be in charge of more than just a gang someday soon, and I can't do that if all of Fortitude is frozen by you."

"Either way, we know where your thief is, and can fetch him readily enough."

He turns towards Reflection, with a disbelieving snort. "Not an enemy? That's rich, coming from an Immaculate. I've seen what your kind do to so-called 'Anathema' first hand. My brothers and sisters lie dead because of them."

[HalfTangible]

"Yes clearly the assassin is in a position to talk about excessive force."


Malfeas below.

Normally, she would be pretty happy about finding a Solar. It meant her job was a lot easier, but there where some situations that made things complicated. In a place like this, it meant that she was caught between blowing her cover because the stupid- no, the Illuminated Teachings said they where all wise and powerful. Even if they sometimes did really frustrating things that meant she had to do a lot more work and figure out a new way to approach the situation. As a supposed 'Immaculate' then she should respond violently right now. She could potentially do so in a way that would even prevent her from having to kill this dumba-wise god king. Plus there was the 'almost certainly a lunar' dude waiting and watching in the wings.

But that would render attempts to speak reasonably to him on rather shaky ground down the line. Worse, this would make extracting him from the city difficult as well if this got out. Her mind was desperately trying to come up with some perfect clever ruse that would work. Syl would be able to come up with something. But while she was a decent liar, she just, at the end of the day, wasn't that smart at working her way out of these situations. She had a more straightforward approach usually. The worst part is she could almost see the solution. Some quote from the Creed about preserving mortals first or something but she couldn't get there in time.

One of them was already inching for a sword and everyone was shouting. She had to diffuse.

"I know where your thief is."

Her voice rose up, "I didn't think much of it at at the time, but it makes sense now. I can potentially return it to. But that is on the condition the fires are returned now. Otherwise you're on your own. As for you," She turned towards the solar and... Raised both her palms up, a gesture of a peace. "Not your enemy Night Caste. We need to have a chat later. I think you'll be interested by what I have to say. Are you the one Syls contacted?"

Reflections immediately gains the Keeper's full attention. His head whips to face her, the Night Caste momentarily forgotten. "........ and... you know that you can catch him?"


Brandr strives to present a bold front, but in truth he's more than a little surprised at the revelations being tossed about. Not least of which is that the Warden talks to the God Below. A Solar? Shahan-ya Spider King told me about them.... what does this mean for my plans?

"I never claimed innocence, or even any particular benevolence, but I do claim to care about this city. It's my home as much as anyone's. Or if you'll only believe a selfish motive of me, I'd like to be in charge of more than just a gang someday soon, and I can't do that if all of Fortitude is frozen by you."

"Either way, we know where your thief is, and can fetch him readily enough."

He turns towards Reflection, with a disbelieving snort. "Not an enemy? That's rich, coming from an Immaculate. I've seen what your kind do to so-called 'Anathema' first hand. My brothers and sisters lie dead because of them."

"She plays the part, but she is no Immaculate. I can see her broken oaths as clearly as the blood on your hands. You can, at least, trust her not to purge the Anathema so readily."

With the rattling of chains, the Warden folds his arms. "... none of you are lying. I can tell that much. You know where he is. And you can bring him here. Good. I presume you will not leave if I swear to do it once he's brought in... but if you all swear to bring him in I shall restore this city's fire."

He gestures to Shungnis and Osirle. "Go with them, bring in the thief."

[Justanotherhero]

"I know where your thief is."

Her voice rose up, "I didn't think much of it at at the time, but it makes sense now. I can potentially return it to. But that is on the condition the fires are returned now. Otherwise you're on your own. As for you," She turned towards the solar and... Raised both her palms up, a gesture of a peace. "Not your enemy Night Caste. We need to have a chat later. I think you'll be interested by what I have to say. Are you the one Syls contacted?"


Hearing these words from the Immaculate and the revelation the Immaculate might not be an Immaculate at all Stark gazes at Reflection, Larin and then the Warden gets off his knees and slowly backs away. Not the suspicious kind of backing away, just slowly putting a little bit of distance between himself and the people pretending to be someone they are not while not turning his back and keeping an eye out.

" I should really go back...return to Vor to receive permission..."


My advise run now while you still can.

[DrakeRaids]

"Lunars. Quick to violence and slow to trust. I don't blame you for it, your kind has been hunted by mine for a long, long time. But the god is right. I'm not your enemy, and even if I was you're about to have bigger problems if death is coming to this city. If you have a problem with me, then lets wait until this is resolved to deal with it, pup."

"I will help you Warden."

She glanced around, she had stiffened at his words concerning her broken oaths. There was still so much complicated emotion trapped in that, that a year later she was still disassembling and trying to form into something that made sense to her. Her fist tightened, as she met the gods eyes, "I have encountered Death Knights before," She turned, and met each of those presents eyes, her expression grim. "Perhaps the only one here who has. And I will not allow another slaughter. But Warden. Do not speak for me." She sighed, and hefted her weapon over her shoulder.

"The deal is struck. I understand what is at stake, and will not abandon your city to what is coming. Solar, this is a task that your caste is exceptionally suited for. It's possible the boy has tried to escape where we last left him. Will you go ahead, quietly? Scout things for us. We'll follow up behind. We're on a clock now, not just from the fires and the Warden. Lets move."

[WarDragon]

"So, you've walked away from the false religion you all so fawn over? That's a good start. I'll give you the chance to prove you're no enemy... so long as you don't call me pup again."

"I'll head back to the tavern as well and keep an eye on it until the rest of you catch up. Good hunting."

His form shimmers into that of a large raven and he takes off through the night, black feathers quickly fading into the night as he wings back towards Soft Whisper's place.

9 sux on Stamina roll against the cold.

[Volthawk]

Hearing two different instructions to leave (not counting anything the Warden was probably thinking but wasn't saying) , Larin slightly nods and walks into the cold and dark again, quickly making a detour from the route to the tavern to check the places he might find some of his agents. After some searching, the unusual circumstances making his job harder, he finds someone in a small, quiet establishment that he knew some of them liked to relax in when they had no pressing assignments.

Once there, he starts giving out instructions to be relayed back to those agents of his who could be found and can shift priorities quickly enough to be useful, although Larin was very much aware of how the conditions outside would slow things down and limit what his spies could actually do. Nevertheless, he wanted them to do what they could to keep an eye on the two gods at the center of all this, and to investigate the mortals from the tavern, Butcher and Ilari. Even if things worked out fine and the latter was still there, he still wanted to know what could be found on them and any gangs they were a part of, in case he found himself having to deal with them soon in one way or another. Finally, he passed on the names of those he was working with, wanting more information on them - they may be allies now, but he wanted to be informed in case that situation didn't continue, particularly given his little slip-up in the Court.

Once he's satisfied with the instructions, he bids his agent farewell and heads back into the cold, making his way to the tavern and hoping he wasn't too far behind the others.

[Justanotherhero]

Eh..
Stark looks at Reflection and looks at the Warden, shifting gazes searching some form of normal behavior.

"I do as the gods and Dragons command... yes." ]

Stark will follow the group but try to keep himself behind and with the remaining ^normals^.

Pulling his jacket close he spends much of the way trying hustle from one newly emerging source of warmth to another.

A reasonable pact has been made. Thank you for this! When this is over I hope to visit again and maybe discuss why not all change must be bad.

[HalfTangible]

Hearing these words from the Immaculate and the revelation the Immaculate might not be an Immaculate at all Stark gazes at Reflection, Larin and then the Warden gets off his knees and slowly backs away. Not the suspicious kind of backing away, just slowly putting a little bit of distance between himself and the people pretending to be someone they are not while not turning his back and keeping an eye out.

" I should really go back...return to Vor to receive permission..."

My advise run now while you still can.


"Lunars. Quick to violence and slow to trust. I don't blame you for it, your kind has been hunted by mine for a long, long time. But the god is right. I'm not your enemy, and even if I was you're about to have bigger problems if death is coming to this city. If you have a problem with me, then lets wait until this is resolved to deal with it, pup."

"I will help you Warden."

She glanced around, she had stiffened at his words concerning her broken oaths. There was still so much complicated emotion trapped in that, that a year later she was still disassembling and trying to form into something that made sense to her. Her fist tightened, as she met the gods eyes, "I have encountered Death Knights before," She turned, and met each of those presents eyes, her expression grim. "Perhaps the only one here who has. And I will not allow another slaughter. But Warden. Do not speak for me." She sighed, and hefted her weapon over her shoulder.

"The deal is struck. I understand what is at stake, and will not abandon your city to what is coming. Solar, this is a task that your caste is exceptionally suited for. It's possible the boy has tried to escape where we last left him. Will you go ahead, quietly? Scout things for us. We'll follow up behind. We're on a clock now, not just from the fires and the Warden. Lets move."


"So, you've walked away from the false religion you all so fawn over? That's a good start. I'll give you the chance to prove you're no enemy... so long as you don't call me pup again."

"I'll head back to the tavern as well and keep an eye on it until the rest of you catch up. Good hunting."

His form shimmers into that of a large raven and he takes off through the night, black feathers quickly fading into the night as he wings back towards Soft Whisper's place.

9 sux on Stamina roll against the cold.


Hearing two different instructions to leave (not counting anything the Warden was probably thinking but wasn't saying) , Larin slightly nods and walks into the cold and dark again, quickly making a detour from the route to the tavern to check the places he might find some of his agents. After some searching, the unusual circumstances making his job harder, he finds someone in a small, quiet establishment that he knew some of them liked to relax in when they had no pressing assignments.

Once there, he starts giving out instructions to be relayed back to those agents of his who could be found and can shift priorities quickly enough to be useful, although Larin was very much aware of how the conditions outside would slow things down and limit what his spies could actually do. Nevertheless, he wanted them to do what they could to keep an eye on the two gods at the center of all this, and to investigate the mortals from the tavern, Butcher and Ilari. Even if things worked out fine and the latter was still there, he still wanted to know what could be found on them and any gangs they were a part of, in case he found himself having to deal with them soon in one way or another. Finally, he passed on the names of those he was working with, wanting more information on them - they may be allies now, but he wanted to be informed in case that situation didn't continue, particularly given his little slip-up in the Court.

Once he's satisfied with the instructions, he bids his agent farewell and heads back into the cold, making his way to the tavern and hoping he wasn't too far behind the others.

Larin is able to sneak off and pass his instructions on without much issue, other than assuring them that fires could be lit again and that it wasn't going to suddenly turn off.

Brandr, you're able to see far more from the air than you did on the ground. As you go, at first you don't see any new fires lighting, even though the Warden did apparently make it possible. For a moment, the thought crosses your mind that the Warden tricked you; but then your eyes spot an orange glow, then another, and another. Some of them are moving across the city, and you can hear people calling out. News was spreading.

You've seen the city from a bird's eye view before. You quickly find your way back to the tavern, and for a moment circle around the building. It is cold and dark; you don't see any fires lit inside, nor anyone waiting outside of the tavern.

((Brandr, you got there in about 10 minutes, the rest are still gonna take about an hour if they move at a normal pace. I don't actually know if this works well with how birds fly but that's what we're doing :smalltongue:

(Larin, Stark and Brandr have already done this, but everyone who's going out into the winter night again, roll Stamina + Resistance, TN 4. It was supposed to go up here but I forgot to mention that before Volthawk rolled so you're getting an easier roll :P Stark takes 2L damage from the environmental effect.))

[WarDragon]

Brandr will circle the tavern, as well as scouting a couple of blocks out, to make sure Ilari hasn't already bolted. If there's no unusual activity in the streets, he'll look for a nearby rooftop to perch on. He moves every few minutes, to keep an eye on all possible exits.

When the others start getting close, he'll land on the streets, and resume his human form, out of sight of the windows, then rejoin them.

[Justanotherhero]

"By the gods..., !@#$%^&, f!@#, s!@#, the spirits want to kill us, *&^%"

Stark does not hide how bad he experiences the cold and continues mumbled cursing.

[Apogee1]

With a brief farewell to the Warden and his guards, Allev moves to start heading back with the others still there. He lingers by the doorway, concerned about heading back into the cold (now short a cloak), but he grimaces and follows Stark.

As they walk, Allev clings to what remains of his layers, keeping them tight around him. He tries to repeat some of the exercises that helped him through the earlier cold. Move. Keep blood flowing. Warm extremities. And this time, he draws on his anima slightly more, bolstering his limbs with energy.

He turns to Stark. "Pretty incredible, to run into a Solar, Lunar, Dragonblooded, and the god of this city in the same night. And, I suppose, Vor as well. Though they at least are more normal for you."

[HalfTangible]

Brandr will circle the tavern, as well as scouting a couple of blocks out, to make sure Ilari hasn't already bolted. If there's no unusual activity in the streets, he'll look for a nearby rooftop to perch on. He moves every few minutes, to keep an eye on all possible exits.

((5sux))

Brandr, when you alight on the building across from Soft's tavern, you notice something odd. There are tracks from you, the earth elemental, and the rest of your ad-hoc circle trudging through the snow... but there's another two sets of tracks going over them. You didn't notice at first, but partway down the line, your circle's tracks go towards the center of the city, but these continue straight down the road. The new tracks much more fresh; they would've been made about 5 or 10 minutes before the Warden made his deal with the dragon. One set is light on the snow, moving quickly but quietly; the other set eventually disappears entirely.

[Justanotherhero]

He turns to Stark. "Pretty incredible, to run into a Solar, Lunar, Dragonblooded, and the god of this city in the same night. And, I suppose, Vor as well. Though they at least are more normal for you."


"Sir Vor is a ... enigmatic master. Often I do not really know what to expect but he is a messenger of the Life giving Hearth Lord , he saved us and for that we will be eternally grateful."

The sentence sounds almost rehearsed from Stark, at least the last part.

" I have heard tales of the Anathema... of people dying in flames, ruins and curses. Of the things the Moon ... ones do to there enemies. What they do to the women and children of the defeated... I have not seen such beings before but ... are you not afraid?"

[WarDragon]

Seized by a nasty suspicion at the sight of the tracks, Brandr quickly returns to human form and heads back into the tavern, hoping to be proven wrong. He immediately looks around for Ilari.

[DrakeRaids]

"Stories are often just stories."

Reflection fixed Stark with a look as she trudged through the cold, starting to visibly shiver. The weather was taking its toll on her too, now. Despite her natural hardiness it was creeping into her, slowing her. She didn't like it. It was hard to believe anyone could survive up here, like this. "Observe for yourself." She started to say something else, then paused, considered, and then shook her head. "The nature of Exalted is complex. I could tell you all a counter dogma to what you've heard but in the end, it's just another dogma. Just because you're mortal doesn't mean you're not capable of making our own decisions. So judge the 'Anathema' on what you see happens instead of merely what you hear. Not saying trust them unconditionally, like you should trust me. " Her grin was wry at that, "After all, some stories are just stories. And some of them are true. But the Celestials where once capable of grand things. And in the age that is coming this world will need them." At least that's what Syl always said.

And after seeing what the forces of death where capable of... she believed him.

[Justanotherhero]

"Stories are often just stories."

Reflection fixed Stark with a look as she trudged through the cold, starting to visibly shiver. The weather was taking its toll on her too, now. Despite her natural hardiness it was creeping into her, slowing her. She didn't like it. It was hard to believe anyone could survive up here, like this. "Observe for yourself." She started to say something else, then paused, considered, and then shook her head. "The nature of Exalted is complex. I could tell you all a counter dogma to what you've heard but in the end, it's just another dogma. Just because you're mortal doesn't mean you're not capable of making our own decisions. So judge the 'Anathema' on what you see happens instead of merely what you hear. Not saying trust them unconditionally, like you should trust me. " Her grin was wry at that, "After all, some stories are just stories. And some of them are true. But the Celestials where once capable of grand things. And in the age that is coming this world will need them."

Stark looked forward through the snow He opened his mouth as if to ask a question or give comment but closed it again. Only to slightly raise his hand and then close his mouth again. It appears lots of thoughts crossed his mind but none of them right now were coherent enough to be mentioned.

[HalfTangible]

Seized by a nasty suspicion at the sight of the tracks, Brandr quickly returns to human form and heads back into the tavern, hoping to be proven wrong. He immediately looks around for Ilari.

As soon as you burst into the room, every eye looks up towards you. The red skinned woman you saw standing with Stark earlier stands up from her position on the ground and walks uneasily to you. "Wh-what happened?" Her teeth are chattering. "F-fire's been lit again. Did you kill the warden?"

Your eyes rake across the cold tavern. The hearth has been re-lit, but has only just begun to catch; they likely only started trying to light it in the last minute or so. There are a few people that are collapsed on the ground, barely moving. Fewer than you'd perhaps feared, more than you'd perhaps hoped. They've been moved near the hearth and most have blankets over them.

... you don't see Ilari anywhere. Soft Whispers is nowhere to be seen either.

[WarDragon]

Kill the Warden? Much as he appreciated the confidence...

"No, but we might have to before morning, if we can't return what was stolen from him." Brandr clenches his jaw, taking another look around the tavern. "Where is Ilari, the thief Butcher was roughing up? And for that matter, where's Soft Whispers? Tell me truly, or the fires may go out again." He puts a hand on her shoulder, staring into her eyes with his piercing blue ones.

[HalfTangible]

"Ilari? What's he got to..." Alzar's near-black eyes rake over the tavern, and when they don't find Ilari either, they narrow. "Oh that cowardly little..."

"... About a half hour ago, some people started collapsing from the cold." She gestures to the collapsed people by the hearth. "As you can see."

"Soft Whispers was distracted, I think. But some time after that began, he looked around the common area, swore, and then went out the door. He told the rest of us to keep an eye on things here and that he'd be back soon." She shakes her head. "That was half an hour ago. He didn't stop for a jacket or anything, I don't know where he is or what's happening."

Usho steps up, moving towards Brandr. "Hang on, where's Sna- Saint of Heroes? And the others that were with you?"

[WarDragon]

"Damn it! He gave us the slip, those must have been his tracks out there..." Brandr snarls a curse and heads for the door. "Fine last I saw them. I knew a shortcut," he tells Usho. "Wait, 'Saint of Heroes'? He really calls himself that?" He shakes his head as he leaves.

Outside, he turns a corner and shapeshifts back into a raven, where he flies to meet up with the others. "Ilari bolted while we were still on our way to the Warden's Court. Soft Whispers is chasing him and I spotted tracks leading away from the tavern. We need to hurry if we're going to catch them."

[Eurus]

The trip back isn't much more pleasant than the trip out was, but at least it's not pitch dark. The glimmer of fires here and there is comforting, even if it's not much help when the wind bites. Saint trudges along in silence, listening to Reflection but not commenting. The concept of "Anathema" was one he was only vaguely familiar with, truthfully. The priests of the divine triad in Whitewall didn't tend to speak much on that subject... not that he spent much time listening to priests anyway. Still, he was in the habit of concealing his nature until it was really dramatic to reveal it, and now any reveal would be rather pointless since it turned out almost half a dozen god-chosen were in this little group.

Oh well, it was too cold to sulk much.

Resistance 3 + Stamina 3 + Stunt 2
[roll0]

[Apogee1]

Allev, listening to Reflection and Stark, nods along as Stark describes Vor. It was ... good the elemental seemed benign enough. He did not feel particularly confident in his ability to bind a malignant one with his limited knowledge of sorcery, and ties to the Hearth Lord (whoever that was) sounded useful enough with the current fire situation.

To Stark's question, Allev considered Reflection's response before giving his own. Interesting, between what she said earlier and now.

"Yeah. We're a long way from the orthodoxy of the Realm here, and, as I am sure you've noticed, this place is not exactly a shining beacon of order and righteousness. What we've been told to believe and what we should actually believe aren't always the same."

"Besides," Allev says with a short laugh, "there are a number of gangs lead by gods here so danger of the supernatural sort is not that unusual."

Of course, being an "Anathema" also is a good reason to not be scared of them, but the mortal probably had enough surprises for the evening already. And being one was certainly nice with the cold this time.

[Justanotherhero]

Outside, he turns a corner and shapeshifts back into a raven, where he flies to meet up with the others. "Ilari bolted while we were still on our way to the Warden's Court. Soft Whispers is chasing him and I spotted tracks leading away from the tavern. We need to hurry if we're going to catch them."

"I cannot say that I am fast enough to catch up to a god. But if the alternative is to freeze to death I will try. Do you wish to fly ahead and give us signal where we should walk to?"

[DrakeRaids]

"Follow him. As fast as possible. Track him and find him even if it means outpacing me-us. We need this resolved. Quickly. He may no longer be just a mortal but he'll be new and untested. If we can get on him before he finds his footing it'll be best otherwise we may never find the idiot. Time is of the essence. Flare your banner if you reach him so we can find you easier."

Reflection seemed nervous. It was unusual for the preciously confident Dragon-Blooded, but the threat of the undead, of the abyss seemed to have rattled her. She grips her weapon, even with no enemies in sight. She would not let this town become a necropolis, not again.

[WarDragon]

"That's strange, it sounds like you're repeating what I just said. I don't take orders from you, Terrestrial, but you are right, I can outpace the rest of you easily enough. Try to keep up."

He shifts form again, this time into his totemic form, a massive black wolf, and dashes off to where he saw the tracks, straining his senses to pick up the trail of the two. He backtracks just enough to catch their scent, then follows at his best speed, shrugging off fatigue and the cold.

10 sux on the tracking roll.

[HalfTangible]

The two guards sent along with you are hanging back a bit, apparently fine with merely supervising while having the rest of you handle this issue.

Osirle scowls when Brandr transforms. "Can't believe we're trusting a bloody facestealer to lead us true."

Shungnis breathes into her own hands, warming them. "Not much choice in the matter, mate. Boss says we go, we go. We got an Immaculate dragon with us just in case."

"An oathbreaker, the Warden said. A former immaculate."

The two continue bickering between one another....From their tone, they don't seem to think you can hear them.

The black wolf form that Brandr has taken is a swift and able tracker, he leads you all quickly but you're able to keep pace (perhaps despite his harsh words Brandr doesn't want to abandon the group entirely). Soft's scent disappears shortly after the trail begins, but Ilari's stays strong. From the tracks, Ilari was trying to keep from being spotted, and so he was moving slowly and deliberately; you don't have that issue and are able to follow his scent quickly and easily. As you trudge through the city, a light snowfall begins to fill the air around you. Newly lit fires spring up in homes as you go, casting the darkening roads in an occasional warm orange glow.

Ilari's trail goes deep into the older parts of the city, or more specifically an abandoned part of the city. As you trudge through the now thickening snow, the fires become fewer and the homes more dillipidated. You see fewer and fewer signs of life of any kind, even animals, as you approach a wall rung by barbed wire. There is a wooden gate before you that has been open for as long as any native to the place can remember; but the walls are marked with warnings to stay back. Those of you native to Fortitude know this area as the Broken Gallows. Once, it was a place for execution of the most vile and dangerous individuals in the city; those whose crimes were too horrid to allow them to continue their bloodlines. However, ghosts arise here with an alarming frequency, and so the area was simply abandoned. Some gangs go here on occasion but it's not really anyone's territory.

Or at least, it wasn't.

Brandr almost runs headfirst into it; almost. Part of the gate has been broken off and now stands in the center of the road, atop a pile of human skulls. The makeshift sign is marked by a picture of a skull, shaped vaguely like a heart; none of you recognize the image. The design has blood splashed upon it...

https://external-content.duckduckgo.com/iu/?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftse1.mm.bing.net%2Fth%3Fid%3DOIP. qHn7KBh8b6wNgHPJWr8W6gHaHF%26pid%3DApi&f=1



"... well that's ****ing ominous." Osirle mumbles.

[Justanotherhero]

Stark stars at the symbol:

" That looks not inviting.. does anybody knwo what it means?"

[Volthawk]

Having rejoined the group after his detour to give order, Larin looks at the skulls thoughtfully. "I don't have cause to send my agents here very often, so no. I can make some obvious deductions, though. For one thing, there are only two reasons to come here - be cause it's unclaimed ground you can hide in, and because of the ghosts. Ilari probably came here for the former reason, unless he has darker ties than we thought, but this is definitely tied to the latter. Some kind of cultish gang, perhaps, or the ghosts being more organised than your average hungry ghost." He glances over to Reflections. "You and the Warden talked about the dead coming to the city. I concern myself more with the living, so I'm not an expert on their ways, but if they were, I'd guess this place is where they'd go first."

[WarDragon]

Brandr just growls, not willing to waste the essence to shift forms. He pads through the broken gate, and continues following the trail while the others talk.

[Eurus]

Saint of Heroes stares at the bloodied skull in something like... glee? Yes, it's definitely more excitement than trepidation.

"Do we get to fight a cult of necromancers? That's awesome. I've always wanted to do that."

[Justanotherhero]

"Then I guess it is very good you are here, because that looks odd.

Stark continues walking and tries to stay in about the middle of the group.

[HalfTangible]

In the shadows, you now hear faint whispers as you continue onward. A woman begging for her life. A child crying. An angry man demanding money. Another man, making morbid and desperate jokes about his fatal wound. The Broken Gallows has been abandoned by the living for a long time, and though you don't quite see any ghosts, you can feel them, like a cold shiver running down your spine that has nothing to do with the weather.

About a minute after passing the sign, you see a blue light in what looks to be a former prison yard. The fence has been destroyed on the end you come from, but you can also see a building on the opposite side with a single open door leading in. A wooden frame and platform that once served as a set of gallows now sits dillipidated by the passage of time on the left side of the field from where you stand. Near the center of the yard, you see two figures; a young man in disheveled clothing you recognize as Ilari, and another man in armor. They're standing beside a fire that burns bright blue, Ilari still shivering in the cold. The armored man has his arms crossed and seems entirely unbothered by the weather.

He looks vaguely like a corpse from the River Provinces given life. Messy, unkempt black hair hangs around his head, just barely reaching his jawbone. His skin is pale, gaunt and pallid. He wears lamellar-styled armor, but the material is... well, it looks like blackened steel, but even in the dark of the courtyard, it's evidently not. Where the light catches it, you could swear you see screaming faces form and dissolve in the strange, shifting metal. It is unnerving in a way that you find inherently repulsive, even if you can't quite articulate why.

Ilari is talking desperately, earnestly about something you can't quite hear from your position (Perception+Awareness, TN 3). The armored man is not even pretending to be interested in whatever the young man is saying.

It seems like they haven't noticed you yet. What do you do?

[Justanotherhero]

Whatever may be going on one thing is clear. Stark has no intention of engaging in battle with who or what is wearing that armor. Moving silently he leaves the path and hides in nearby ruined house. After that remaining completely silent to hear the conversation.



Dex 5 + Stealth 1 + Stunt 2 + Excellency 4
[roll0]

Per 2 + Awareness 5 + Stunt 2

[roll1]

[WarDragon]

Whatever that armored corpse is, Brandr knows he doesn't want it in his city. He strains his sensitive, wolfish ears to pick up the conversation, even as he slinks closer, his ebony fur blending into the shadows...

6 successes each for Dex+Stealth and Perception + Awareness.

[Eurus]

Saint of Heroes's eyes instinctively seek out hiding places, and his steps grow light and soft for a moment... until he remembers that he's supposed to be a hero, not a skulking rogue. Evil should hide from him, dammit. He draws himself upright and puffs out his chest with confidence that's at least half feigned, and steps forward, letting his staff click on the stones of the courtyard.

"Ilari, what happened? You were supposed to wait for us to come back!"

Perception 3 + Awareness 3 + Stunt 2
[roll0]

[HalfTangible]

Stark, you get closer to the fence, quietly approaching without giving any indication of it. A small snowdrift mostly conceals your presence, and your dark clothing makes it difficult to see you beyond the range of the firelight. Brandr slinks low to the ground, slowly trekking through the snow. You're both able to overhear some of Ilari and the stranger's conversation.

"-kill me if he ever finds me." Ilari hurriedly whispers. He looks down at his hands. "Is there any way to get it out of me? I don't want it if I'm going to be hunted forever."

"If there is, I've never heard if it. We'll make our way into the Underworld, then we can bring you to my mistress. She wishes to meet with you. Then, if you don't like her offer, we can bring you anywhere within the world of the living."

Ilari froze. "... the Underworld?... that... that doesn't..."

The man sighs. "If you'd rather be dead, I can make it quick."

"No! No nononononono, no! I just..." He glances around in the darkness. "I..."

His eyes lock directly onto Stark, then Brandr, then on the group, then on a point behind you all, and though you're certain it's too dark for him to see you, his eyes narrow.

"... what?" The man frowns. "Did you hear something?"

"... No. Just an owl." Ilari says slowly, before turning back to the knight. As he says this, the group hears an owl hooting in the air above. "You said you could get me out of the city, Heart."

"And I can." The Heart promises. "My compatriot is a sorcerer and can bend the winds to her will. We'll go faster once she's with us."

"... couldn't she use that to get to us faster?"

"Yes. Yes she could." The man is tapping the side of his armor, irritated. "If she cared about anything other than her personal experiments."

Ilari rolls his eyes. "Yeah. Had that kind of partner before."

The man snorts, the first bit of mirth he's shown, yet his smile doesn't quite reach his eyes.

And then Saint of Heroes swaggers in and says "Ilari, what happened? You were supposed to wait for us to come back!"

Ilari and the Heart both freeze in place, then sloooooowly turn to look at the newcomer. The fire beside them crackles, throwing sparks into the air that light their dumbfounded expressions.

"I can't believe- how did you find me?!" The young man yelps. The stranger frowns, and Saint of heroes can feel... something behind his eyes, and a cold shiver of something else runs down Saint's spine. You understand, without quite knowing how you understand, that this man is in opposition to everything your Exaltation stands for. There is a sting of betrayal that you can't quite place the reason behind, as well. He appears to be unarmed, but no less dangerous for it.

"Bold man. I didn't hear anyone around." Heart growls. "And who is this?"

[Volthawk]

As Larin sees the figure's armour, a hand drifts down to his belt, tracing along the metal that trimmed it - he'd found the little of whatever that was in the belt strange, let alone a whole suit of it. Whatever it was exactly, he knew what it meant - this was a dangerous person, and no mere mortal. He'd had already shown his hand too early once today, and he wasn't about to repeat things, particularly against such an unknown enemy. Slipping among the broken fences and blending into the shadows they cast, he watches the scene unfold as shadowy chains form out of his sleeves, ready to strike if (he had the feeling 'when' was a more appropriate word) things reached the point where his skills were necessary.


10 successes on the Stealth check - Larin's actually being a proper Night this time. The thing at the beginning about his belt is just because his Belt of Shadow Walking is described as having a little soulsteel in it, felt like a little thing worth incorporating.

[Apogee1]

Allev remains with the majority of the group as Stark and Brandr range ahead. This area they had traveled to is not one he would have liked to frequent. But for keeping the fires in the city lit, he'd do what was needed. And if it was true the dead and ghosts frequented this area, he had a responsibility to deal with them, right?

As the strange, armored figure becomes visible, Allev squints and looks towards him. He did not recognize the man (though clearly, the dead were in fact in this city), but the shifting, screaming armor .... Allev cast his mind back to the books, to viewing samples in the markets and what he had seen when trading with the groups of the gods.

[Eurus]

Saint's eyes narrow briefly at the man called the Heart, but then he grins, sudden and innocent. Well, almost innocent. Somewhere in that range, at least.

"Hi, I'm Saint of Heroes. Sorry for intruding, won't be here long..."

Brushing the strange armored figure off, he turns back to the runaway thief and holds up his hands placatingly.

"Ilari, I'm feeling kinda disappointed here. We went to the Warden to try and get this all settled peacefully, but it turns out you did have this Exigence thing the whole time? I can't help you if you don't tell me what's going on!"

[HalfTangible]

As Larin sees the figure's armour, a hand drifts down to his belt, tracing along the metal that trimmed it - he'd found the little of whatever that was in the belt strange, let alone a whole suit of it. Whatever it was exactly, he knew what it meant - this was a dangerous person, and no mere mortal. He'd had already shown his hand too early once today, and he wasn't about to repeat things, particularly against such an unknown enemy. Slipping among the broken fences and blending into the shadows they cast, he watches the scene unfold as shadowy chains form out of his sleeves, ready to strike if (he had the feeling 'when' was a more appropriate word) things reached the point where his skills were necessary.


10 successes on the Stealth check - Larin's actually being a proper Night this time. The thing at the beginning about his belt is just because his Belt of Shadow Walking is described as having a little soulsteel in it, felt like a little thing worth incorporating.



Allev remains with the majority of the group as Stark and Brandr range ahead. This area they had traveled to is not one he would have liked to frequent. But for keeping the fires in the city lit, he'd do what was needed. And if it was true the dead and ghosts frequented this area, he had a responsibility to deal with them, right?

As the strange, armored figure becomes visible, Allev squints and looks towards him. He did not recognize the man (though clearly, the dead were in fact in this city), but the shifting, screaming armor .... Allev cast his mind back to the books, to viewing samples in the markets and what he had seen when trading with the groups of the gods.


Saint's eyes narrow briefly at the man called the Heart, but then he grins, sudden and innocent. Well, almost innocent. Somewhere in that range, at least.

"Hi, I'm Saint of Heroes. Sorry for intruding, won't be here long..."

Brushing the strange armored figure off, he turns back to the runaway thief and holds up his hands placatingly.

"Ilari, I'm feeling kinda disappointed here. We went to the Warden to try and get this all settled peacefully, but it turns out you did have this Exigence thing the whole time? I can't help you if you don't tell me what's going on!"Larin, you're able to slip under the notice of even your fellow circlemates.

"What was I supposed to say?" Ilari makes a silly mocking face. "Oh hai complete stranger, everyone is dying right now because I made a woopsie and there's no way I can fix it! Come help me survive the wrath of a god or two please?!"

He drops the silly expression and folds his arms. "I told you the truth. Zenmul sent me to steal a relic from the Warden; this little gold statue, looked like the Unconquered. On my way out, I was discovered, and in the rush I dropped it. It smashed, and..." He shrugged and threw his arms up. Spectral chains form, drooping from his wrists. "One breath I'm a mortal just barely scraping by, the next I have more power than I know what to do with. I thought I might be able to get it out of me, so I went around asking some sorcerers about it." He laughed, doubling over a bit. "But nope! Only way to get it out is to kill me. Zenmul wasn't going to accept that. The Keeper wasn't going to accept me as his champion. I thought about running, but this city is my whole life. Then..." He shrugged. "Well, you know the rest. Fires went out. I ran."

"My compatriot promised him sanctuary should he ever choose to flee the city." The Heart continues, stepping between Ilari and Saint. "A promise I intend to honor to the best of my ability. I am the Unhallowed Heart of the Bone Dragon. Take that name back with you, little 'hero'. It's all you'll gain from this place."

Heart doesn't sound threatening, despite his words. He sounds... tired. Like he's been down this exact road before a hundred times over.

Allev, you haven't personally seen this material before (not a lot of use for it even in this city) but you do recognize it, to the degree that there is no doubt. The Heart is wearing artifact lamellar armor, the kind of wonder that entire kingdoms have bled themselves dry trying to make. But this armor is forged from one of the most horrid materials know to Creation: soulsteel. It resonantes with the essence of the dead, and it is incredibly powerful. Soulsteel is created by an arcane and horrid process you don't fully understand (and have never had any wish to). You do know that it involves hammering hun ghosts - the very soul of a person - together into a nightmarish existence where individuality blurs, and their pain is unending. The half-formed faces you're seeing in the blackened steel are, in all likelihood, not mirages. Unfortunately, destroying soulsteel also destroys the souls inside, denying them a chance at reincarnation.

It is a truly horrid material, but it is also very rare, especially in the realm of the living. The fact that the Heart is wearing so much of it so brazenly is all the proof you need that he is no ordinary man.

The whispers grow louder.

[Justanotherhero]

Slow and steady undetectable Stark of Varlok draws his crossbow and begins to aim. Not at the boy, he has to live but at the sort of dead thing.
And looking around for a window or a roof that a fit human could climb onto with some luck. After the first shot is fired Stark will need an exit.

[Eurus]

Saint crosses his arms and tilts his head, like he's considering.

"...Well, yeah. If you'd asked me to help you get out of here, I would have. I've stolen stuff from gods before. Woulda punched the Warden right in his smug face, if he showed up, not that he would have, because he apparently doesn't get out of the house."

He throws up his hands, exasperated and rambling.

"I mean, maybe that's still an option? The Warden's threatening to ice the entire city to death if he doesn't get his power thing, but I'm still not going to just give him a person to kill. Maybe if you get far enough away and he knows he can't stop you, he'll give up? But maybe he's actually spiteful enough to kill the whole city just because he said he would."

The dashing and fearless hero runs a hand through his hair, turning it from "messy" to "equally messy but flopping the other way".

"Anyway, I'm sorry for being all snippy with you, Heart. You seem like a decent guy if you're trying to help Ilari out. Any thoughts?"

[DrakeRaids]

Since they found the skull marking, the dead, the feeling of darkness...

For the first time that night Reflection was not proud, boastful, or confident. She looked... Contemplative. No, that's to kind. She looked afraid.

Her tetsubo scrapped the earth behind her as she walked, the sound of jade grinding stone. Despite it, and the indentations left in the ground behind her she didn't look threatening. She looked concerned. This was bad. This was to fast. The Dead where already here. This place, it was in danger. so much danger if the eyes of the Abyss and those things they called Lords had turned upon this city. She wouldn't let it happen again. She wouldn't let another massacre happen again. She ignored the creature calling itself Unhallowed Heart of the Bone Dragon fort now, and focused on the boy. The boy. That's where you had to start. Save one person.

"Ilari do you know what the dead want." There was no shudder in her voice at least. She was a Dragon still, even if in the service of a different ideal now. And she had that much pride, still. Even in the face of the void itself she would not tremble. She didn't seem surprised at Ilari's explanation. It's what she had assumed once the God had revealed what had been stolen. But giving this to the Dead was...

It wasn't just suicide.

It was murder.

"They want the extinction of every living being in existence. I have seen, and survived what comes when they ride. Men. Women. Children. It makes no difference. They die, and their souls and bodies are used as parts, as fuel to cause further death. A destructive flame that spreads outwards until someone-" That poor boy, wreathed in sunlight- "stops it. Stamps it out. They may tell you otherwise. They are lying. I can offer you an alternative. One without the resources of the Dead, but one that will not make you an accessory to the genocide of peoples."

"You're a thief Ilari. You're not a murderer."

"Would you care to listen to my option?"

[Justanotherhero]

Stark is genuinely impressed with some of the insights of his ...one can call them travel companions. If they manage to pull this off he will ensure that none of them go thirsty today. Sadly he has his doubts that the warrior in black will give away something so precious without a fight.

It would be nice if the boy decided to do what was right. It would make enforcing that decision more righteous and that is something Stark can appreciate.

With that in mind he balances the crossbow on the stonewall before him and silently licks the top of his thumb. A breeze of wind from the right. Stark adjusts the crossbow and prepares to fire on the warrior should he decide to take hostile action. With a bit of luck a shot between head and armor. Necks can be so vulnerable.

Staring at the warrior in black stark begins studying this figure trying to anticipate wether his thought is right that the warrior will fight to keep his prize, even if the prize refuses. Trying to anticipate while looking at body height and size where the warrior would grab the boy.


Socialise 5 + Perception 2 + Stunt 2

[HalfTangible]

Saint crosses his arms and tilts his head, like he's considering.

"...Well, yeah. If you'd asked me to help you get out of here, I would have. I've stolen stuff from gods before. Woulda punched the Warden right in his smug face, if he showed up, not that he would have, because he apparently doesn't get out of the house."

He throws up his hands, exasperated and rambling.

"I mean, maybe that's still an option? The Warden's threatening to ice the entire city to death if he doesn't get his power thing, but I'm still not going to just give him a person to kill. Maybe if you get far enough away and he knows he can't stop you, he'll give up? But maybe he's actually spiteful enough to kill the whole city just because he said he would."

The dashing and fearless hero runs a hand through his hair, turning it from "messy" to "equally messy but flopping the other way".

"Anyway, I'm sorry for being all snippy with you, Heart. You seem like a decent guy if you're trying to help Ilari out. Any thoughts?"


Since they found the skull marking, the dead, the feeling of darkness...

For the first time that night Reflection was not proud, boastful, or confident. She looked... Contemplative. No, that's to kind. She looked afraid.

Her tetsubo scrapped the earth behind her as she walked, the sound of jade grinding stone. Despite it, and the indentations left in the ground behind her she didn't look threatening. She looked concerned. This was bad. This was to fast. The Dead where already here. This place, it was in danger. so much danger if the eyes of the Abyss and those things they called Lords had turned upon this city. She wouldn't let it happen again. She wouldn't let another massacre happen again. She ignored the creature calling itself Unhallowed Heart of the Bone Dragon fort now, and focused on the boy. The boy. That's where you had to start. Save one person.

"Ilari do you know what the dead want." There was no shudder in her voice at least. She was a Dragon still, even if in the service of a different ideal now. And she had that much pride, still. Even in the face of the void itself she would not tremble. She didn't seem surprised at Ilari's explanation. It's what she had assumed once the God had revealed what had been stolen. But giving this to the Dead was...

It wasn't just suicide.

It was murder.

"They want the extinction of every living being in existence. I have seen, and survived what comes when they ride. Men. Women. Children. It makes no difference. They die, and their souls and bodies are used as parts, as fuel to cause further death. A destructive flame that spreads outwards until someone-" That poor boy, wreathed in sunlight- "stops it. Stamps it out. They may tell you otherwise. They are lying. I can offer you an alternative. One without the resources of the Dead, but one that will not make you an accessory to the genocide of peoples."

"You're a thief Ilari. You're not a murderer."

"Would you care to listen to my option?"

The Heart raised an eyebrow at Saint as he speaks. "Ilari's choices are very simple: stay and die, or leave and perhaps live. It seems a simple choice to me."

Reflection's appearance catches both of them off-guard. The chains in Ilari's hands writhe a moment, and though Heart doesn't appear to have any weapons, he stands

"Base slander. You say you saw the dead slaughter all, yet here you stand! I would not have him do anything of the sort. I am a knight, not a butcher." He glares at Reflections. "And I have no desire to stain my blades with a dragon's blood. Leave now if-"

"Wait." Ilari interrupted him. "... Let her talk."

Heart turns to glance at Ilari. "She cannot keep you safe. The Keeper cannot follow us into the Underworld, and by my honor you will be released into Creation again if you do not like my mistress' offer. There are shadowlands across every direction. The Keeper will never find you, and you may go as you please."

Ilari glances between them, still unsure.

Then, "Let her talk anyway. Please."

The Heart raises an eyebrow, grunts, and looks to Reflections, still standing between them.

Stark, the Unhallowed Heart is an open book to you. He is sincere; he intends to help Ilari get out of the city alive... but you can also tell he's a stubborn individual, and he will not relent his charge so easily. You're not entirely sure how he will react if Ilari decides to go back with the rest of you, mostly because he seems to not be sure either. More than that, though, you can tell that while he is sincere in his actions and statements... he's also waiting for something. You're not sure what, but his fingers are twitching; whatever's coming he's not going to have to wait long, and he'll have to move quickly from there.

[Justanotherhero]

Stark has very few options to communicate in this moment. But they are exalted.. if they can see him it should work.

He raises his left hand slightly points towards Heart and then raises his left foot and fake taps on the ground 2 times careful not to actually touch the floor. Then points towards Heart again and then to his own eyes and begins to turn his head scanning his immediate surroundings.

After that Stark continues aiming.

[DrakeRaids]

"Slander?" For a moment Reflection's eyes focused towards the creature of darkness before her, the Death Knight. Bury the fear behind something else. Scorn? Scorn worked. "Maybe don't come to us wearing armor fashioned for eternally tormented souls before you think about trying to grab the high ground. I survived because your kind can be stopped. Because there exist those who won't let you turn all of Creation into little more than a mountain of corpses."

She took a breath, and focused. She was off balance. She needed to find her calm, she was of Earth, not Fire. She needed to be steady. Sure. She exhaled. "Kid. I get it. You knew this was a bad look from the start. But it was the only way you figured you'd see sunrise. And even if this was a bad choice, you couldn't deal with the bad choices tomorrow, if you died today." She glanced at the others who weren't hiding, the cat was already mostly out of the bag. Might as well pull the rest of the veil off. "But I can give you another option."

"The Order of the Illuminated."

"Look, I'm not really an Immaculate Monk, not anymore. I serve a different group now. I got found when I was in a... Dark place. And they made me an offer. They're trying to help the world pull back from the spiral its in. Things are getting worse and they're gathering Exalted, training them, supplying them, protecting them. Giving them tools to make things better. I'm decently placed there, and I can accept you into it. I'll deal with Warden one way or another. Kid, I don't care what you think but no one ever takes the Second Breath on accident. If you have it, it's because you're supposed to. But now you have to make a choice. If you go with him? You'll end up serving death one way or another. If not willingly then they'll break you until you do. You won't be helping pull the world back from disaster, you'll be accelerating it towards the brink."

She held out her hand towards him.

"So what do you say, Ilari? Do you want to protect the world? Or do you want to destroy it?"

He was to young to be having to make that choice. Hell, kids older than him could still exalt as Dragons. But here he was. Here they where. And he had to make a choice, and nonaction, was not an option.

[WarDragon]

Brandr has no idea what the Order of the Illuminated is, but it doesn't really matter right now. He slinks through the shadows, ready to spring for Heart's throat if he reacts badly to Reflection's offer. They can decide what to do with Ilari and the Warden afterwards.

[Apogee1]

The finer details of Reflection’s arguments aside (and there were some things Allev had never heard about), the point remained the dead and their agents were in this city and it was unlikely they were here to do good. And if Ilari fled, the entire city might plunge back into darkness. No, he had to stay here. The Warden wouldn’t kill someone bearing his power, right? Unsure, Allev hesitates, as he had not thought the Warden would cut off the fires either. Perhaps his desperation ran far deeper than he thought.

But if a fight might break out here, Allev would be ready. He walks slowly closer to Saint and the Dragon, stopping slightly back from them with a hand rested on his sword.

[HalfTangible]

"Perhaps. But I didn't hammer them into shape; the crimes against these souls are not mine." He tapped the breast of his lamellar armor. "Make armor out of your crimes and see how light it is, 'Immaculate'."

Ilari is quiet for a few tense moments. He looks between the dragon and the deathknight, uncertainty plaguing his features. Perhaps sensing his hesitation, the Heart speaks quickly. "I have sworn to keep you safe, Ilari, this woman has no idea what-"

"Look," Ilari interrupts, "The Exigence gave me a lot of gifts. I can see the blood on your hands. Hers, too. There's a lot. And she's... well, she seems like she's telling the truth to me. Maybe it's the Immaculate texts talking, but she says she's seen it first hand and I believe her."

Ilari walks past the Heart, and stands next to Reflections. "I don't want to die. I don't want to kill anyone, either."

The Heart's eyes dart between Reflections, Ilari and Saint. "I could kill them both and just take you."

"Perhaps you could." Ilari said quietly, turning to look back at him. "But you are not the type to do that. For all the blood on your hands, I see not one betrayal."

"You heard the dragon." He growled. "There's no betrayal when killing your enemies.

"Not them." Ilari clarified. "Me."

There's a moment where the voices in the shadows writhe and grow, just on the edges of your hearing. All of you witnessing this standoff can feel the tension in the air as the deathknight looks over Saint and Reflections. There's no sound but the blowing of the wind. A few snowflakes land on the shadow that is Larin. Allev comes just barely into the light, hand on his sword. Heart's eyes land on him...

"... Fine." The Heart sighs, and shifts out of his stance. The whispers fade away, not gone, but further back. "Go from here, if you must. At least I can tell the Weeper her absence is why we lost you."

Ilari smiles a bit at that. "Tell her I said hi?"

"Sure. She won't care." He glances between each of the three arrivals he already knows about. "Well? Get out."

Fortunately for you, Ilari's base resolve is 2. He has a major intimacy that he could draw on here, but that puts him right at 5; exactly what you rolled.

[Justanotherhero]

Stark maintains position until Ilari reaches Reflection and continues aiming. Just in case a sudden change of heart comes along. Once Ilari reaches Reflection Stark lowers his weapon and tries to take back his position in the middle of the group.

[Eurus]

Slowly, Saint of Heroes exhales, the tension starting to leave him.

"...Man, that got tense. I was sure someone was going to start swinging. That Heart guy is pretty odd."

He's more than willing to comply with the order to leave, and he doesn't say anything more until they're out of the ominous courtyard. This is more from needing some time to think about it than any real tact, but eventually he looks up at Ilari.

"What a mess, huh? Honestly, I feel a little out of my depth! If I can't hit something or steal- err, never mind. Reflection, what's that order you said you were part of? Illuminated? Never heard of 'em, but I don't know much about Immaculates anyway."

[WarDragon]

"Trust me," Brander says, transforming back to his human form, "you don't want to. They make a habit of killing people like us."

"That was well said, Dragon. I hope we can be as persuasive when it comes time to keep the Warden from having another temper tantrum and freezing my city to death." He gives Heart a backwards glance as they leave, wondering what the fight would have been like.

[Justanotherhero]

"I know this is not heroic and really not what you want to hear, but can we stop somewhere for hot soup? I am freezing here I barely can feel my fingers.While we are doing that I would gladly hear more about this new ... Illuminated philosophy?

Stark puts his gloves back on and desperately tries to warm his hands.

[Volthawk]

Although he sees the others leave, Larin stays where he is, confident he still won't be seen. This Heart person was a new player in what was going on, and he didn't want to leave here knowing this little about him. The man had mentioned waiting for another of his people to arrive, so Larin waited to see who they were, hoping to ascertain more about the pair of them.

[DrakeRaids]

Reflection didn't let her eyes leave Heart's, or he hands leave her weapon until she the Deathknight was out of sight. She didn't like leaving him there, honestly? In most other circumstances she's pressed for the kill, with at least two Celestials beside her she'd likely have been able to best this one and returned him to the earth where he belonged. Deny those monsters one more blade with which they would no doubt use to strike at Creation in the future. If not here, then elsewhere. Leaving a deathknight alive made her party to who knows how many needlessly ended lives down the line. She gripped her weapon so tight even her alabaster skin seemed pale, before trying calming again, and doing her best to put that name they had mentioned at the end out of her mind.

Questions she could ask the boy later.

"I'm starved too, never got to finish my meal before all this got going. But unfortunately for both of us, we're not finished tonight. Still work to do. You know I think that's what I miss most about, before I was exalted. I got to actually sleep. There's an old Immaculate saying about how rest is the gift the Dragons give to mortals but must deny to themselves. It's mostly a load of crap of course, if you'd ever seen a Dynast you'd know that but. The sentiment stands."

She felt around her waist for a mount before sighing, "Daana’d's ******** ***. Didn't even bring a flask. Ah well." She inclined her hand towards Brandr, "You're a native right, moon boy? I'm going to pitch my willingness to teach the kid Martial Arts and whatever else he's got an aptitude for, and stay in the region, and give him some connections that will help him, and through extension, the Warden's city out. Warden gets his Exalt just like he wanted. It may not be someone he would have specifically chosen, but given the Second Breath took the kid just fine it should be hard for the God to argue he can't take the burden, especially if he's got a decent mentor. Think he'll play along?"

She hoped he'd be on board but, it was hard to tell. Gods could be erratic but, she had promised the kid hadn't she? "Even if he doesn't, Ilari, I made a promise to you and I'm gonna keep it. So you don't fret. Just stay close."

"As for the Order of the Illuminated, it's not Immaculate Doctrine. It's... Something else. I'll happily explain some of it you all, give you the run down on what it is and what we do in specific. But please, don't tell anyone else in town what I am. It's a lot easier for me if people just assume I'm a wandering washed up Immaculate monk. Open Illuminated activity gets attention. Wyld Hunt kind of attention. You understand?"

[WarDragon]

"I make it about equal odds he takes the deal or we have to kill him. Probably more than once."

[Apogee1]

"Yes, it would probably be for the best if the attention of the Wyld Hunt was not on this city for the time being." Allev responds, a hint of dryness coming out. Despite that, he's clearly very interested in what Reflection has to say, both about Ilari and the Illuminated. There was still much to learn

Allev then turns to Stark. "Are you injured? I'd be happy to take a look at what ails you when we stop next."

[Justanotherhero]

Allev then turns to Stark. "Are you injured? I'd be happy to take a look at what ails you when we stop next."


"I don't know if it counts as injury but I can remember a time when I was able to feel my toes. So if you can help I will gladly accept."

Stark looks like he is trying a joke but it is pretty clear his hands appear to hurt from the cold.

Turning to the all and the Dragon : Is this place normal? Is this common in this city? I mean surely somebody put up wards against the dead and buried the deceased to prevent them.from coming back?...

I can remember a rumour that the dead invaded a city in the south and I am pretty sure some people did fight back. If this is to personal feel free to ignore me but: Did you see it?

[HalfTangible]

The Heart locks eyes with Brandr. He looks at your spear, smirks, and then cracks his knuckles. As if to say "Oh I look forward to beating you."

He only pays some attention to Reflections as she leaves.

---

Osirle and Shungnis stick closer to Ilari than the rest of you do. Both of the guards are keeping a close eye on the thief as the trail continues. Ilari glances between each of you as the route continues.

"What will you do if the Keeper refuses, dragon?" Osirle asks, trying to keep the question casual.

---

Larin, you stay for a long while. Long enough that you almost leave, but just as the thought crosses your mind, you hear a rush of wind in the distance. Heart looks up at the sound, scowling. This is what he's been waiting on. Above, a woman appears riding a swirling cloud of wind.

She is dressed in black leather clothing that clings tightly to her form and leaves most of her legs and arms bare, despite the cold of the night. Her hair is wild and raven black. A small top hat sits at a jaunty angle on her head, and in her hands she carries a censer forged from the same metal as the Heart's armor. The smoke from the censer billows upwards into the sky, thick at first, but growing wispier as it rises. She holds a long chain forged from black steel, at the end of which is a censer. Like the Heart, she is alabaster white, though where the Heart was sallow and gaunt, she looks like a flawless statue in motion. On her forehead, there is a emerald jewel set into a golden diadem.

"Nice of you to finally show up." The Heart growls, not even trying to hide his irritation. "Do you enjoy being useless?"

"There is no need to project your insecurities onto me. I realize I was supposed to be here ten minutes ago-"

"Over an hour ago."

"Yes, well, I promise my project will make up for it." She tossed her hair over one shoulder. "Did you know that putting family members together in soulsteel makes them aware of each other, but unable to communicate in any meaningful way?" Weeper spoke with the sort of glee that your average nerd might have when discussing their chosen obsession. "And I can hear their misery, oh it's delightful!"

The Heart's look of distaste seemed appropriate, if not extreme enough. "And this is necessary for your new... 'project'?"

"Hm? Oh, no. It's the personal touch that makes things fun, you see." She glances around the prison yard. "If I'm so late, where's the boy?"

"Gone." He growls. "You took so long he started to question our ability to get him out. Then a dragon showed up with a small entourage - including but not limited to a Lunar - and offered him a better deal."

"... Well that's annoying." She pouts. "Why didn't you take him anyway? Let me guess, 'it wouldnta been wight'. I have no idea why the Lover puts up with you."

"Focus." The Heart folds his arms over his chest. "Not only did we fail to get the Exigent out of the city but we also have a Lunar and a Dragon-Blooded to deal with. And where there's one, there's many. That's a problem."

"Nothing a good atrocity or three can't solve." She waves a hand, brushing aside his concerns. "A stronghold among the living is useful for the Deathlords, but this city isn't like Thorns. No one cares about it, least of all the Realm; we should be more than sufficient to take it."

"Be that as it may, the Lunars are already eyeing this place, and there is a former Immaculate here. And if Ilari is here, he will fight with them."

She chuckles. "Oh don't worry about that. Lunars, Dragons, Solars... even they must die one day. By the time we are done, this city will beg to be like Thorns. Let's get back to the necropolis."

The Heart steps up onto the swirling wind platform. "Ilari sends his regards."

The Weeper giggles as he comes up. "I don't care."

The wind platform flies straight up and then shoots away into the night.

... It's getting very cold where you are and they seem to be gone.

[WarDragon]

The Heart locks eyes with Brandr. He looks at your spear, smirks, and then cracks his knuckles. As if to say "Oh I look forward to beating you." Brandr sneers in return. The feeling is mutual.


Osirle and Shungnis stick closer to Ilari than the rest of you do. Both of the guards are keeping a close eye on the thief as the trail continues. Ilari glances between each of you as the route continues.

"What will you do if the Keeper refuses, dragon?" Osirle asks, trying to keep the question casual.
There's nothing casual in Brandr's answer: "I'll tell you what we aren't going to do; we aren't going to stand by while he shuts off the fires again and does the dead's work for them."

[Volthawk]

Satisfied with the information sticking around has gotten if, if not with how cold the wait had left him, Larin gets moving, leaving the yard and heading back to the Court of Chains. It was the place he was most likely to find the others after their head start, and even if they weren't there he needed to talk with the Warden again. As he walks, he considers Ilari's situation. If the Warden would not have him, perhaps he could offer the boy an alternative by his side...

[Justanotherhero]

There's nothing casual in Brandr's answer: "I'll tell you what we aren't going to do; we aren't going to stand by while he shuts off the fires again and does the dead's work for them."

"Maybe before going at it we can dicuss the minor issue of an entire dead neighborhood. I knew this place was...special ...but."

[HalfTangible]

"Maybe before going at it we can dicuss the minor issue of an entire dead neighborhood. I knew this place was...special ...but."

"It's been abandoned for a long time. Before the ghosts it was thought to be a cursed place, even for this city. It was where the worst criminals went to die. Now..." Ilari shrugs. "Getting rid of ghosts isn't simple. Some would say more trouble than it's worth." He glares at Osirle and Shungnis.

Shugnis grips her spear tighter. "Well that's one reason what we got an exigent for, mate. But then it got nicked. Ya wouldn't happen to know anythin' about it, would ya?"

Ilari doesn't answer her.

[Justanotherhero]

Moving forward pulling his clothes tight Stark decides that if this neighborhood is dead anyway he might as well let dignity suffer. He pulls his clothes tighter his face now barely visible and begins a long and loud complaint: I swear it is even colder then before . How in the name of the gods do people live here?....*Cursing*

[DrakeRaids]

"You're thinking about Thorns. And... I wasn't at Thorns, thank the Dragons." She explained, nodding at Stark as they began their return to the Temple, and the moment that would likely decide much in their immediate future. She still felt chilled, and it wasn't just from the cold. She drew her cloak closer as she walked, her imposing figure easy for the eye to catch and follow. "Thorns wasn't the only tragedy the Death Knights have performed, just the most notable. I... I had my encounter when I was still part of the Immaculate Order. We had been tracking a Solar. We got more than we bargained for when we found a Death Knight, in a small port town. The Death Knight... She killed to many people before we stopped her, drove her off. I don't like thinking about it. But I don't have the luxury I suppose, and I'll teach you all what I know about them and what you can learn from the incident later. I need to time to plan."

[Justanotherhero]

Thorns wasn't the only tragedy the Death Knights have performed, just the most notable. I... I had my encounter when I was still part of the Immaculate Order. We had been tracking a Solar. We got more than we bargained for when we found a Death Knight, in a small port town. The Death Knight... She killed to many people before we stopped her, drove her off. I don't like thinking about it. But I don't have the luxury I suppose, and I'll teach you all what I know about them and what you can learn from the incident later. I need to time to plan."


Stark looks like he is fighting the cold for his existence while he tries to somewhat jump around and desperately maintain his body temperature.
After he hears the news he looks genuinely
surprised.
"I did not know that.. it does change some things.

[Eurus]

Saint of Heroes, when he's not actively drawing attention to himself, is deceptively sneaky. He slings one arm over Shungnis's shoulder as they walk, so smoothly that it's like he just materialized from the chilly air.

"Careful there, you should be nice to Ilari! He might be your boss soon, you know?"

He grins at the thought, and winks at Ilari.

"How did you two end up with this job, anyway? No offense, but doesn't your boss think everyone here is a criminal, for their bloodline alone?"

[HalfTangible]

Saint of Heroes, when he's not actively drawing attention to himself, is deceptively sneaky. He slings one arm over Shungnis's shoulder as they walk, so smoothly that it's like he just materialized from the chilly air.

"Careful there, you should be nice to Ilari! He might be your boss soon, you know?"

He grins at the thought, and winks at Ilari.

"How did you two end up with this job, anyway? No offense, but doesn't your boss think everyone here is a criminal, for their bloodline alone?"Shungnis' eyes narrow, but she doesn't pull away from Saint. She's warmer than he might have expected; perhaps a side effect of the Keeper's protection. Ilari's near-constant nervous expression brightens a bit at Ilari's suggestion.

"Criminality is inherited here, but like any prison you can reduce your punishment or get yourself moved into lesser-security areas." Osirle explains. "He'd prefer innocents that took the oath, but the Keeper has to recruit from the prison population. He makes do with what he can find. Shungnis was born from a visiting noble and one of the minor offense lines, so her blood's pretty clean."

Shungnis grumbles. "It's a nice way o' sayin' I'm a bastard o' murderers and bluebloods."

"My family line started out pretty awful but we've been cleaning up our act for centuries." Osirle slammed a fist against his own chest, grinning wide. "Serial killers, psychopaths, traitors, but me and mine rose past that. We're some of the best informants that the Warden has ever had, rooting out the corrupt and ignoble that would continue to taint their blood with-"

"Snitches. The entire line's fulla snitches." Shungnis snickers. "Lotta ****ty people 'ere still commitin' crime. Osirel's lot talks 'bout it, gets lighta sentences."

"It sounds awful when you put it that way." Osrile grumbles, folding his arms. "Those people you saw chained down outside the Court have earned the worst of all punishments for their crimes, at least for a while. At least they don't go Below." He shudders, and Shungnis bites her lower lip. Those of you from Fortitude would know that going 'below' meant going down into the mines, with the primordial god of Fortitude. There are entire tribes of prisoners that grew up toiling in that darkness, but few ever leave it permanently.

[DrakeRaids]

"...This place has an undercity? Where you send the worst if the worst to die?" Reflection sounded alarmed, though not the moralistic kind of alarm. The kind of alarm if someone who just realized the cliff they're standing is starting to crumble.

[Justanotherhero]

"...This place has an undercity? Where you send the worst if the worst to die?" Reflection sounded alarmed, though not the moralistic kind of alarm. The kind of alarm if someone who just realized the cliff they're standing is starting to crumble.


Stark looks up and is still freezing while looking at the immaculate:

"You think that is the odd part? Compared to being guilty at birth?"

[HalfTangible]

"...This place has an undercity? Where you send the worst if the worst to die?" Reflection sounded alarmed, though not the moralistic kind of alarm. The kind of alarm if someone who just realized the cliff they're standing is starting to crumble.

"No. Well, kinda, see..." Shungnis hesitates. "The Warden runs the city up here, but he ain't the god'f it, if ya get my meanin'. It don't really got a name, so it's hard to talk about. Or to, f'r that matter."

"Fortitude is a prison, but it's in a pretty terrible part of the north. We need food and other supplies shipped in to keep us all fed." Osirle continues. He points downward. "Beneath the city there's a set of mines that we pull gems and certain rare plants out of. We trade them for supplies we need to survive. There's entire tribes down there, mining for crimes against Creation itself."

[DrakeRaids]

"I mean yes, this whole culture is incredibly messed up but my primary concern is that from what I'm hearing there is a small army of potential Death Knight sympathizers tunneling underneath the city right now. Is there any oversight to what's going on down there? Are any of your people in charge? It's not left to it's own devices, surely?" Her pace was quickening, she was no tactician, war had never been her forte, but she could still read a bad situation.

[HalfTangible]

"I mean yes, this whole culture is incredibly messed up but my primary concern is that from what I'm hearing there is a small army of potential Death Knight sympathizers tunneling underneath the city right now. Is there any oversight to what's going on down there? Are any of your people in charge? It's not left to it's own devices, surely?" Her pace was quickening, she was no tactician, war had never been her forte, but she could still read a bad situation.

Shungnis and Osirle look at each other a moment.

Then Shungnis, hesitantly, speaks. "... It's... possible."

"... I served a stint down there as a guard once."

Shungnis glances at Osirle. "Wha? I din't know that."

"Volunteered. I didn't stay long. The Warden, Zenmul, even the fair folk? You can talk to them, it's close enough to talking to a person even if they're big and weird." Osirle holds his spear closer to him. "The Shadow Below is... I don't even know. It's more a force of nature than a living being. You don't talk to an earthquake. You don't reason with the wind. You don't suggest to the darkness that it be a bit lighter for your benefit. It's just... there, always there in the back of your mind."

He glances at Reflections. "My point is you don't need to worry about anything happening down there. You might find sympathizers to the deathknights, but open rebellion in such a place is simple suicide."

Saint, you've dealt with a lot of gods. Even the weird, esoteric, powerful ones tend to have some form or another that can be interacted with. This 'Shadow Below' sounds a bit 'out there' even for a deity.

[Eurus]

Saint thinks it over, then frowns.

"...Huh. I mean, how can you be sure it's a god, then? It could be a demon, for all you know."

Not that he knows much about demons, but the priests back home seemed to think that they were bad. He figured it was another term for "anathema" for a while, but apparently he's anathema, so it's probably more complicated.

[HalfTangible]

Saint thinks it over, then frowns.

"...Huh. I mean, how can you be sure it's a god, then? It could be a demon, for all you know."

Not that he knows much about demons, but the priests back home seemed to think that they were bad. He figured it was another term for "anathema" for a while, but apparently he's anathema, so it's probably more complicated.

Shungnis starts giving you the stink-eye, though she doesn't pull away. "Warden sez it's the god o' the city. Good 'nuff for me, no reason why he'd give that to someone else if'n it weren't true. There a reason you thinkin' otherwise?"

---

As you go through the city, making your separate ways back through to the Court of Chains... you see far more glowing windows and you hear voices. There's still some confusion, but the danger has passed, and this is becoming clearer to everyone now. Once or twice you even hear someone laughing. Though the night remains cold, and you may be eager to get out of it, you get the sense that despite everything, Fortitude's people will live to see another sunrise. All that's left now is to deal with the Warden, and the matter of Ilari...

The group meets back up at the Court of Chains. The place remains cold and imposing, and as you step inside, the air is still only barely tolerable. Above you, the cloaked figure of the Keeper of Chains, Warden of Fortitude, simply floats and glares. Ilari shrinks back.

It seems that the Keeper has gathered his guards back to his side during the time you've been gone. Osirle and Shungnis are standing behind you, but there's another 4 in the chamber.

There's a moment of silence, as the group of guards, Ilari, the Keeper, and the circle all stare.

"You are the thief."

The young man nods.

"You will return what you have stolen and you will be tried."

"My lord," Osirle speaks, "there's a slight complication. He dropped the idol and it shattered. He bears your exigence now."

The Keeper's eyes turn towards his guard. "Really now. An Exigence cannot be removed from the soul once it has taken hold. The only way to retrieve my exigence would be to slay you."

The guards grip their weapons.

"Tell me why I shouldn't, criminal scum."

Ilari shrinks back, trembling.

[Volthawk]

Having just reunited with the others when they reached the Court, Larin steps forwards when the Warden threatens Ilari. "Because we have larger issues. The enemy you were preparing for is already here, they plan to kill this city, and they have already gone after Ilari and the Exigence. They want it, and you've already shown you cannot reliably protect it. Keeping it in Ilari and preparing him for what is to come is a better use of our time, and keeps it safer, than you killing him and hiding it away to get stolen again." Larin sighs, looking the Warden in the eye. "If you try to harm him, I will fight you. You recognised what I am now, and you know what that would mean, and how it would weaken any defence we have against this..." He pauses, remembering the two strangers' words. "Deathlord. Your personal pride must be set aside, if you truly want to protect this place as I do."

[WarDragon]

"What guarantee do you have you'll be able to get it back, Warden, and it won't just return from whence it came? Give the boy a chance; you aren't likely to find someone more skilled than a thief willing to steal from you. Speaks to more bravery than he's showing now, too." He gives Ilari an 'encouraging' smack on the back. "Stand up straight, kid, show your backbone."

[DrakeRaids]

Egos abound. Malfeas below this is why you don't let men be in charge of things.

She walked forward, putting her hands out on either side, attempting to deescalate what was happening as she spoke. "I'm not a scholar of the second breath but finding someone else suitable for your Exaltation isn't going to be trivial. The fact it so readily accepted him speaks towards his ability in the role. I've promised the boy help and aid, and training. If you accept him as your exalt your city will only stand to gain from the arrangement. If you deny him you will find yourself standing alone against the coming Death. Think reasonably about the situation, Warden."

She stared him down for a moment before giving the boy a comforting nod as well. He needed to say it. By saying it it would help make it real.

"" What say you Illari. Will you protect this city? Defend your fellows?"

[Justanotherhero]

This is a time for hereos. When principles are measured and violence is threatened. When what is right must be done.

Stark gazes over this group and slowly moves to the side next to one of the burning fires , he is very cold, rubs his hands above the flames goes in cover behind it should violence break out. He does not touch his weapon and does not look like he wants to challenge anyone. And goes into a very defensive posture behind the fire.

[Justanotherhero]

Standing there from behind cover Stark looks at all these very passionate people that appear to want the best for themselves and others.
And he wishes he could remain there. But the truth is the boy was dumb and did what he should not have. And that was something Stark understood all to well. Memories from a better and simpler time filled his mind.

Damn.

Stark gives up his cover and steps forward. Directing his orders to the closest guard.

There is no doubt in his words and not the slightest bit of submission.

"Guard!
Bring everyone in this room a chair and 5 tables I would not mind some tea and honey.Bring paper and feathers to write. If we argue we should argue like people that want to achieve something.

[HalfTangible]

Having just reunited with the others when they reached the Court, Larin steps forwards when the Warden threatens Ilari. "Because we have larger issues. The enemy you were preparing for is already here, they plan to kill this city, and they have already gone after Ilari and the Exigence. They want it, and you've already shown you cannot reliably protect it. Keeping it in Ilari and preparing him for what is to come is a better use of our time, and keeps it safer, than you killing him and hiding it away to get stolen again." Larin sighs, looking the Warden in the eye. "If you try to harm him, I will fight you. You recognised what I am now, and you know what that would mean, and how it would weaken any defence we have against this..." He pauses, remembering the two strangers' words. "Deathlord. Your personal pride must be set aside, if you truly want to protect this place as I do."


"What guarantee do you have you'll be able to get it back, Warden, and it won't just return from whence it came? Give the boy a chance; you aren't likely to find someone more skilled than a thief willing to steal from you. Speaks to more bravery than he's showing now, too." He gives Ilari an 'encouraging' smack on the back. "Stand up straight, kid, show your backbone."


Egos abound. Malfeas below this is why you don't let men be in charge of things.

She walked forward, putting her hands out on either side, attempting to deescalate what was happening as she spoke. "I'm not a scholar of the second breath but finding someone else suitable for your Exaltation isn't going to be trivial. The fact it so readily accepted him speaks towards his ability in the role. I've promised the boy help and aid, and training. If you accept him as your exalt your city will only stand to gain from the arrangement. If you deny him you will find yourself standing alone against the coming Death. Think reasonably about the situation, Warden."

She stared him down for a moment before giving the boy a comforting nod as well. He needed to say it. By saying it it would help make it real.

" What say you Illari. Will you protect this city? Defend your fellows?"


This is a time for hereos. When principles are measured and violence is threatened. When what is right must be done.

Stark gazes over this group and slowly moves to the side next to one of the burning fires , he was very cold, rubs his hands above the flames goes in cover behind it should violence break out. He does not touch his weapon and does not look like he wants to challenge anyone. And goes into a very defensive posture behind the fire.

Larin, the Warden's guards glare at you, but the Warden himself just flat-out ignores you.

"His 'skill', gangster, lies in theft. And what bravery he may have is far overshadowed by his apparent cowardice." The Keeper growls. "This boy stole from a god and put all of Fortitude at risk. He cannot simply walk away without punishment!!"

"Me?!" He yelped. "You're the one who took all the fire away!"

"And you knew exactly why. All you had to do to fix it was return. And yet, you had to be brought back by this group."

"He was going to run off with the deathknights, sir." Osirle added.

The Keeper's eyes narrow at Reflections. "How noble and deserving this little thief is, truly."

Ilari scowls and he steps towards Keeper. "I came back!"

"When you had no choice."

When Stark orders a table brought, one of the guards turns to leave the room. She makes it to the door before she stops, then turns around, irritated. "Wait a second why am I listening to you?! You're not in charge here!!"

"... Mosaic, please retrieve a table, paper, quill, etc etc. It's going to be a long night."

"You got it boss!" Mosaic whistles a merry tune as she skips out of the room.

[Justanotherhero]

"His 'skill', gangster, lies in theft. And what bravery he may have is far overshadowed by his apparent cowardice." The Keeper growls. "This boy stole from a god and put all of Fortitude at risk. He cannot simply walk away without punishment!!"

"Me?!" He yelped. "You're the one who took all the fire away!"

"And you knew exactly why. All you had to do to fix it was return. And yet, you had to be brought back by this group."

"He was going to run off with the deathknights, sir." Osirle added.

The Keeper's eyes narrow at Reflections. "How noble and deserving this little thief is, truly."

Ilari scowls and he steps towards Keeper. "I came back!"

"When you had no choice."

When Stark orders a table brought, one of the guards turns to leave the room. She makes it to the door before she stops, then turns around, irritated. "Wait a second why am I listening to you?! You're not in charge here!!"

"... Mosaic, please retrieve a table, paper, quill, etc etc. It's going to be a long night."

"You got it boss!" Mosaic whistles a merry tune as she skips out of the room.


" If I may offer not a solution.. but a pathway to certainty and trust?

The Hearthlord spoke of a god once.This god can apparently punish anyone who defies a promise made.

If I see it correctly there is :

First a claim the Lord if this City has against you Ilari for theft.
A wish you have that he can fulfill , to not turn off the fires as long as you serve loyally?

Second the wish of the people within this city that the new chosen may protect them against the undead?

Third an offer by the noble Dragon Blooded to teach the new chosen and maybe receive the services and friendship of a loyal student years later?

You Ilari now have the chance to consider what your existence may be like. Not every chosen receives that chance.

Stark looks into the room with the question in his eyes: did I miss anything?

[Volthawk]

Larin isn't too annoyed by the god not responding to him. He heard what was said, and that was what mattered. If he forced Larin to oppose him now, it was his own fault.

The appearance of tables and papers isn't too encouraging for him, the conversation looking like it was heading towards a lot of time deciding very little, but Stark's statements pique his interest.

"If Ilari wants training, I can see if my sifu is willing, or failing that provide some training myself. He might find my ways of fighting more familiar to his normal ways of doing things, and they work very well in a city like this. And yes, of course I'm fighting the dead. I've heard them talk about Fortitude. They must die if the city is to live, and fighting for the city is what I've been doing since my Second Breath."

[Apogee1]

"The others hear speak truly. The people of this city will need our help, likely all of our help when the dead come calling. Would service to the city not serve as recompense enough for the robbery?

Besides, Ilari was hired to acquire this statue in particular. While ignorance of the severity of a crime should not be the full defense, neither was he intending to take your exigence in the beginning. Since it does seem to have taken to him, he should have a chance to show his value. Allev grimaced as he said the latter portion. He would rather not be arguing with the Warden about this situation in the first place, but keeping the forces in this room preserved for the real battles was important. And, he was angry that yet again a mortal agent (or at least at the time mortal) quite possibly would be paying the cost for ultimately machinations of the much more powerful leaders of the gangs.

[Justanotherhero]

.
Larin isn't too annoyed by the god not responding to him. He heard what was said, and that was what mattered. If he forced Larin to oppose him now, it was his own fault.

The appearance of tables and papers isn't too encouraging for him, the conversation looking like it was heading towards a lot of time deciding very little, but Stark's statements pique his interest.

"If Ilari wants training, I can see if my sifu is willing, or failing that provide some training myself. He might find my ways of fighting more familiar to his normal ways of doing things, and they work very well in a city like this. And yes, of course I'm fighting the dead. I've heard them talk about Fortitude. They must die if the city is to live, and fighting for the city is what I've been doing since my Second Breath."

Finding one competent Sifu for a young chosen can be a great challenge finding two can be counted as a great blessing. I think your talents might be needed sooner rather then later.


"The others hear speak truly. The people of this city will need our help, likely all of our help when the dead come calling. Would service to the city not serve as recompense enough for the robbery?

Besides, Ilari was hired to acquire this statue in particular. While ignorance of the severity of a crime should not be the full defense, neither was he intending to take your exigence in the beginning. Since it does seem to have taken to him, he should have a chance to show his value. Allev grimaced as he said the latter portion. He would rather not be arguing with the Warden about this situation in the first place, but keeping the forces in this room preserved for the real battles was important. And, he was angry that yet again a mortal agent (or at least at the time mortal) quite possibly would be paying the cost for ultimately machinations of the much more powerful leaders of the gangs.

You are right. We have not mentioned that Ilaria did not know what he was doing. And that the individual Zenmul apparently knew very well what to look for. But how did Zenmul know what to look for? And if he is responsible should Ilaria visit him with allies to restore justice?

[WarDragon]

"I was wondering when you were going to drop the act, Marius," Brandr says with amusement as the guard unthinkingly obeys. How does he do that?

Brandr shrugs insolently at the Warden. "Sounds like a true son of Fortitude to me. And he did choose us over the Deathknights, even knowing he'd have to face you. Besides, even if he's not the Exalt you wanted, he's the one you've got. Maybe the only one you'll ever get. Seems to me you're better off trying to mold him than throwing away your chance.|

[Justanotherhero]

Looking at Brandr: I have to admit I did not expect this city to be so ... accepting. So I guess compared to others I am just a bit paranoid.

Stark looks at Ilari and then at the Warden.

"For the sake of maintaining this city for living entities and not an undead stronghold I am willing to witness any fair and clearly defined contract and oath. The question is: What is the plan Lord Justice?"

With that turned if possible only so the warden can see it and not his men Starks head begins to slightly glow and the symbol of the Eclipse Caste shines through.

[HalfTangible]

" If I may offer not a solution.. but a pathway to certainty and trust?

The Hearthlord spoke of a god once.This god can apparently punish anyone who defies a promise made.

If I see it correctly there is :

First a claim the Lord if this City has against you Ilari for theft.
A wish you have that he can fulfill , to not turn off the fires as long as you serve loyally?

Second the wish of the people within this city that the new chosen may protect them against the undead?

Third an offer by the noble Dragon Blooded to teach the new chosen and maybe receive the services and friendship of a loyal student years later?

You Ilari now have the chance to consider what your existence may be like. Not every chosen receives that chance.

Stark looks into the room with the question in his eyes: did I miss anything?

Ilari is very much unsure, and as he looks between the Keeper and Reflections, doesn't seem convinced.


Larin isn't too annoyed by the god not responding to him. He heard what was said, and that was what mattered. If he forced Larin to oppose him now, it was his own fault.

The appearance of tables and papers isn't too encouraging for him, the conversation looking like it was heading towards a lot of time deciding very little, but Stark's statements pique his interest.

"If Ilari wants training, I can see if my sifu is willing, or failing that provide some training myself. He might find my ways of fighting more familiar to his normal ways of doing things, and they work very well in a city like this. And yes, of course I'm fighting the dead. I've heard them talk about Fortitude. They must die if the city is to live, and fighting for the city is what I've been doing since my Second Breath."


"The others hear speak truly. The people of this city will need our help, likely all of our help when the dead come calling. Would service to the city not serve as recompense enough for the robbery?

Besides, Ilari was hired to acquire this statue in particular. While ignorance of the severity of a crime should not be the full defense, neither was he intending to take your exigence in the beginning. Since it does seem to have taken to him, he should have a chance to show his value. Allev grimaced as he said the latter portion. He would rather not be arguing with the Warden about this situation in the first place, but keeping the forces in this room preserved for the real battles was important. And, he was angry that yet again a mortal agent (or at least at the time mortal) quite possibly would be paying the cost for ultimately machinations of the much more powerful leaders of the gangs.


Finding one competent Sifu for a young chosen can be a great challenge finding two can be counted as a great blessing. I think your talents might be needed sooner rather then later.

You are right. We have not mentioned that Ilaria did not know what he was doing. And that the individual Zenmul apparently knew very well what to look for. But how did Zenmul know what to look for? And if he is responsible should Ilaria visit him with allies to restore justice?


"I was wondering when you were going to drop the act, Marius," Brandr says with amusement as the guard unthinkingly obeys. How does he do that?

Brandr shrugs insolently at the Warden. "Sounds like a true son of Fortitude to me. And he did choose us over the Deathknights, even knowing he'd have to face you. Besides, even if he's not the Exalt you wanted, he's the one you've got. Maybe the only one you'll ever get. Seems to me you're better off trying to mold him than throwing away your chance.|


Looking at Brandr: I have to admit I did not expect this city to be so ... accepting. So I guess compared to others I am just a bit paranoid.

Stark looks at Ilari and then at the Warden.

"For the sake of maintaining this city for living entities and not an undead stronghold I am willing to witness any fair and clearly defined contract and oath. The question is: What is the plan Lord Justice?"

With that turned if possible only so the warden can see it and not his men Starks head begins to slightly glow and the symbol of the Eclipse Caste shines through.

His eyes narrow at Stark. "The plan was to grant this Exaltation to one who could be trusted. I would then train them to fight the dead and their dark masters at the head of my guards. Fortitude would be safe, and its goods would continue to flow. A relatively low cost and low risk plan for the gains it would bring. That plan is, obviously, in tatters. Instead it goes to the servant of one of my enemies. Worse, a thief."

"Ignorance of the law does not excuse its breaking... Zenmul will be dealt with but Ilari had a roll to play." He says toward Allev.

When asked about how Zenmul could've known about it, the Keeper's chains drawn inward and he folds his arms over his chest. "... Zenmul is this city's food deity. We... regularly conflict over precise rationing. I don't know who specifically fed him the information, but most likely he has informants among other northern deities, perhaps one of travel. Proper approval for Exigence is rare, it would have caught attention."

He glances at Brandr as he makes his comment. "That is beside the point. It is not simply that he is unworthy of it, but that he cannot be trusted to carry out his task. The fact that he is a 'true son of Fortitude' in your eyes is half the problem. A criminal cannot simply get away with what they have done!!"

"All of that said..." He glances between Ilari and Stark. "... with this Eclipse caste overseeing it, I am willing to negotiate terms. What, precisely, did you have in mind? Training is a given, of course, and I will not turn down additional teachers." He glances at Larin. "... Well. I won't turn down the Dragon's teachings."

Ilari glares. "What, are you kidding me? Community service on Saturnsday and I get to walk?"

"No." The Keeper growled. "Too light a punishment. But I am willing to hear what this group has in mind."

"How do I know you won't just kill me anyway when they leave?"

"Boy, leaving aside my distaste for breaking legal agreements, an Eclipse Caste can make the terms of your sentence sanctified by heaven itself. If I attempted to renege on that deal in any way, the curse of heaven would fall upon me."

That actually catches the young man's interest. "... How do I know you won't just kill me when the contract's done?"

"I suppose you don't. Unless that's built into the deal."

Ilari glances down at his hands. From his wrists, the same glowing spiritual chains you briefly saw in the Broken Gallows. He then looks around at the other Exalted.

"... I know I can do so much more now." He says quietly. "And I... I don't want Fortitude destroyed. But I won't be a slave. Least of all to one of the gods of this place. Isn't it your fault my home is such a ****hole to begin with?"

The Warden's eyes narrow. "Do not speak of what you do not understand, boy. It is your life on the line and I am being very generous."

"Well. That's a great way to start an employment."

Ilari and Keeper both turn their gaze to Stark. It seems they're at least willing to hear out the terms of whatever contract you hope to forge.

[Justanotherhero]

"If I understand it correctly, we are treating :

First necessary punishment for theft. Since it was very valuable I believe that 8 to 10 years would constitute the normal punishment within the Realm?
So 9 years of service with limited pay, limited free time and limited autonomy?
After these 9 years of service the theft is paid for.

Second any chosen is expected to help and serve his god. So 21 years of service with adequate pay, adequate free time and adequate autonomy? So if Ilari serves as your general, he should be compensated in money, free time and decision making as your general. The same goes for other roles, of course.

During these 30 years you will not attempt to kill each other, nor have each other killed. You will not attempt to steal from each other or have somebody people steal from each other for you.

Now conflicts are always possible. Back in the old age of the Shogunate when two houses disagreed with each other 5 Elementals were summoned and each house chose one arbitrator. The majority of 4 of these 7 would settle disputes. While this would be a good formula to settle conflict between you really any council both of you deem independent would be able to pass a just verdict?

Does this sound adequate to you?

Concerning Fortitude and your relationship to the city is that something you wish to define and guarantee?
Do the potential Sifus maybe wish to define the terms for new students?

[DrakeRaids]

Reflection pursed her lips and looked from side to side as things became civilized again. She wasn't good at all this contract business. Impassioned speeches, implicit threats, personable conversation, she could do those things. But this was harder and it wasn't her forte.

"I'm not interested in to much legality on that. I won't force the kid to learn from me, it has to be his choice, not because an oath he made binds him to it. Oaths are important but the intent behind them is just as crucial. But if he is willing then I'll teach him, show him how to defend himself and others."

[Justanotherhero]

"If the representatives of the city population see that the same way. The question is what does the new chosen and his employer think?
Stark looks to the local Hereos if they disagree.

[WarDragon]

Brandr shrugs. "I'd rather see Ilari alive than dead, but I'm not convinced that a Chosen of the warden is the only way for the city to be saved. Sure, train him if he's willing, I'll fight at his side. Make your bargains as binding as you wish. But it'll be her people that truly stand up and fight for her, and Fortitude won't fall while I draw breath."

[HalfTangible]

"If I understand it correctly, we are treating :

First necessary punishment for theft. Since it was very valuable I believe that 8 to 10 years would constitute the normal punishment within the Realm?
So 9 years of service with limited pay, limited free time and limited autonomy?
After these 9 years of service the theft is paid for.

Second any chosen is expected to help and serve his god. So 21 years of service with adequate pay, adequate free time and adequate autonomy? So if Ilari serves as your general, he should be compensated in money, free time and decision making as your general. The same goes for other roles, of course.

During these 30 years you will not attempt to kill each other, nor have each other killed. You will not attempt to steal from each other or have somebody people steal from each other for you.

Now conflicts are always possible. Back in the old age of the Shogunate when two houses disagreed with each other 5 Elementals were summoned and each house chose one arbitrator. The majority of 4 of these 7 would settle disputes. While this would be a good formula to settle conflict between you really any council both of you deem independent would be able to pass a just verdict?

Does this sound adequate to you?

Concerning Fortitude and your relationship to the city is that something you wish to define and guarantee?
Do the potential Sifus maybe wish to define the terms for new students?


Reflection pursed her lips and looked from side to side as things became civilized again. She wasn't good at all this contract business. Impassioned speeches, implicit threats, personable conversation, she could do those things. But this was harder and it wasn't her forte.

"I'm not interested in to much legality on that. I won't force the kid to learn from me, it has to be his choice, not because an oath he made binds him to it. Oaths are important but the intent behind them is just as crucial. But if he is willing then I'll teach him, show him how to defend himself and others."


"If the representatives of the city population see that the same way. The question is what does the new chosen and his employer think?
Stark looks to the local Hereos if they disagree.


Brandr shrugs. "I'd rather see Ilari alive than dead, but I'm not convinced that a Chosen of the warden is the only way for the city to be saved. Sure, train him if he's willing, I'll fight at his side. Make your bargains as binding as you wish. But it'll be her people that truly stand up and fight for her, and Fortitude won't fall while I draw breath."

The guards glance between one another at Brandr's words. Shugnis rolls her eyes.

"..... 15 years for the theft." The Keeper says, begrudgingly. "You're not a first time offender."

"I'm no legal expert but I'm pretty sure I wasn't convicted of anything beyond stealing your statue."

"I am not a fool. Do not try to treat me like one. I can see your crimes as easily as you see them."

"... Fine. 7 years with full autonomy." Ilari growls. "And amnesty for crimes committed before and during my service."

"For 'crimes' committed during the course of your duty, on a case by case basis." The Keeper growls. "And you will obey when I give you an order."

"I'm not going to be a slave, Warden!"

The conversation goes back and forth for a while.

Eventually, they come to an agreement. Ilari will serve a period of 40 years total, 10 of which will be spent paying off his theft in particular. During that time, his autonomy will be severely limited. He will serve as part of the guard, and take his direction from the Warden; he will obey so long as the Warden's orders do not prevent him from protecting Fortitude. Ilari argues against this point very loudly but Keeper is adamant that he be kept on a leash, at least at first. Eventually the Keeper agrees to give Ilari every other Sunsday and Calibration off to pursue as he pleases. Any crime committed in the course of his duties will be overlooked, but he must report them; and anything done outside of those duties will add time to his sentence at the Keeper's discretion.

Once that initial theft time is up, however, the deal becomes far more favorable to Ilari. He will be allowed a command befitting his service up to that point (considering his status as chosen as well) and more freedom to act on his duties as he sees fit. In addition, throughout the entire period, time spent training with a Sifu that the Keeper has been made aware of may count as one of his duties. (Obviously he's not going to be allowed to do this in an emergency, but it may be done in place of other work). At the end of both periods, the metaphorical leash will come off entirely.

Perhaps most importantly, neither will seek the end of each other, nor to do harm to each other, nor even to mislead them on their intentions. For the duration of this oath, there is no one they will be quite as able to count on.

Neither of them seems particularly happy with the deal, but they do reach it without much input from the others. Stark sanctifies the deal, and that is that. You're all allowed to stay the night, in... well, not exactly comfortable conditions, but livable ones, even for mortals. As this long night draws to a close and each of you retire, you take a moment to reflect on all you've seen and realized.

Death is coming to Fortitude. In some ways, it is already here. The Keeper killed many in this city. You know now that the Abyssals are coming for Fortitude... and there's so much else you don't know. They may have supporters in the dark beneath the city, with those tribes mining gems and plants. Mayhaps the Broken Gallows will be the first of many areas to be haunted by the dead. Zenmul, the god who pushed Ilari to steal the Exigence, has gotten off scot-free. Soft Whispers has agendas you can only guess at.

All that said... Tonight, a great disaster has been averted. The city has a new champion. As Brandr said, Ilari will not be enough to turn the tide, but he is an asset nonetheless. You have a god in your debt. And now you have found a Circle of companions. Perhaps it was Fate that you succeed, or a plan yet unseen, or the skills of your party, or sheer dumb luck. Whatever your feelings on the matter, you are heroes to the city, and for a moment the thought makes something in your soul hum.

This was a good first step. But your work has only just begun...

[END SESSION 1]

((Everybody take 10XP and 8 of your Exalt type. We'll have a brief intermission while I put together a second session and you spend XP on whatever you choose. Depending on your plans going for))

[Justanotherhero]

It does take an entire night but Stark does warm up and proposes meeting up in a private place for breakfast. If everybody decides to show up and they are alone he begins.

Now I apologise for any confusion, but as some of you already know and some of you very well suspect. My name is Marius and I do not actually descend from the north. Sadly, since some of you know who I am, I also assume part of the Scarlet Empire know who I am. Stark of Varlock is my chosen northern identity, and I would be grateful if you would not spread the information around. I do not want to end up another Wyld Hunt trophy.
To make that possible I propose a deal: I will help you pursue your goals if I can count on your assistance in the city. I could use a place to stay and time to gather up a few resources for a long term project I am pursuing. For that:

-------
Reflection? Can I call you that?

I will do my best to make you a Dragon Blooded in very good standing. I will start by attempting to summon elementals that will help clear the undead neighborhood and Vor will publicly announce that a new immaculate order temple is planned in that region. The Hearthlord will accept the Immaculate Orders judgement and only ask for one holiday prayer per year in the local temple in return. For that the Hearthlord will aid the local immaculate order.

All I ask in return is that anybody shows up asking questions you tell them the Hearthlords people are somewhat misguided but newly converted immaculate faithful. And that you are using them to promote the immaculate faith. No the Hearthlord is not real, but I did make up a pretty great story about an elemental fire dragon showing up in a northern village that was two days away from freezing to death and saving them all using his magic. For that the elemental fire dragon or Hearthlord is still revered as a deity in this village until today.

If you are the local immaculate leader I hope that keeps away other inspiring leaders. And keeps me safe.I will take some of the newly created real estate in the then used to be undead neighborhood for myself, I am thinking a tea house in a prime location directly next to the new immaculate temple but that is for the future. Does that sound acceptable to you?

------
Larin. I have no quarrel with you or your people, nor do I seek it. In fact, if this works out I might actually become a productive member of society. Tea house owner, trade merchant lets see what happens.

Brandr. The truth is I do not know all that much about your kind, but I am smart enough to fear what I do not know. So please do not kill me or have your friends kill me and maybe we can be of use to each other?

If the two of you tell me what business to stay away from and what territories are yours and maybe we can come to a mutually beneficial understanding? But I will say this:

I think you two have a great deal of power between you the kind of power that reshapes cities. Should you decide to use that or want to come to mutually beneficial understanding my door is open and I am always willing to talk.

------

Allev and Saint. I would like to invite the two of you to participate in remaking the forgotten neighborhood. You both could be fantastic faces for the cause and it would make people like change. Ordinarily people do not like change so that in itself is a great thing furthermore giving people hope and something to cheer for is good for a city and good for the people living in the city. I have a little bit of spare cash I could part with to invest in that process. And I could offer room and board as well as the public support of a hopefully soon immaculate endorsed organisation. Does that sound good?

[Volthawk]

After the agreement has been worked out, Larin slips away, returning to the underground complex of the Order Below and gathering his spies together, explaining the broad strokes of the situation and setting out their new instructions. A new enemy had come to Fortitude, and so far they were broadly unknown. Larin aimed to put a stop to that, sending his agents out to gather information - he may not be able to have people infiltrate the ranks of ghosts and the dead, but he does the next best thing, ordering people to embed themselves within those that worked under the city (so that he could learn if the fears about infiltration there were valid) and in the regions around the (hoping to pick up on any hints or rumours about what might be going on within, given the interest the Deathknights had shown and the signs of something new in there they'd come across). He planned to get involved in these matters himself as well, while they were in the lull before the next storm he was sure was coming. He also keeps the Master appraised of the situation as it stands, partly deciding it was best to not be found out to be keeping something this big from him later, and partly because he felt that, despite the lingering low-level distrust he felt for the other man, the Master would rather support the city than the dead.

---

At breakfast, Larin listen to what Stark has to say before nodding. "Very well. If we are stating our goals like this, then let me be clear: I have no interest in territory. My people and I will go wherever is necessary to achieve what I have in mind for this city - strong leadership, someone with vision who will be able to break the cycle of growth and implosion that previous leaders of this city have always inevitably fallen into and raise this city up into something greater than what it currently is. Your plans sound like they would contribute to this, so you have my support."

[Justanotherhero]

Fortitude is a free place I see.

I will gladly do businesses that might be long term profitable. And I suspect this business might be exactly that.

If you wish to designate a new leader that is a contest I do not want to compete in.

By the way.. who governs this city right now besides the warden? He does not appear to be the undisputed ruler? I am no foreign rebel or imperial spy and if introductions are required Stark of Varlock will of course introduce himself.

[DrakeRaids]

Reflection was, unsurprisingly given her size, a rather large eater, something that was only compounded by the fact she was denied dinner and was then kept moving constantly the night before. She was still dressed warmly, someone who grew up in the Blessed Isle, so temperate the entire year was, exalted constitution or not, horribly unsuited to dealing with the cold of the far north. She settled into the seat, devouring some salted meat with a bizzare mixture of incredible ferocity and perfect elegance. The raise dynast never spilled or misplaced a drop, even as the food was endlessly funneled towards her mouth.

If any of them had gone further south, it would not be unlike watching a school of piranha or similarly small predatory fish devour a carcass without leaving a scrap behind.

"Honestly, I hadn't planned to stay here but... Well. [High Realm Cursing] sure am gonna be here for a while now. I need to send a report to my boss. The Order isn't closely organized for obvious reasons but there is a chain of command. But after I get a line of communication going, yeah, that sounds like a pretty good look honestly. You're not likely to find a better fake Immaculate anyway, right?" The dragon-blooded laughed at that, showing off her bright grin as she glanced around, before sobering somewhat.

"I should probably start telling you about who I represent nowadays. The Order of the Illuminated, and I should also tell you what I know about what we're up against, the Deathknights. Wh ich do you want to hear about first?"

[Justanotherhero]

That is very true. In fact I did not expect ever to see someone capable of interacting with the order in that way and surviving it. A pretty incredible feat. I think promoting your career is in that sense a service to all the people that are being hunted by the order. If there is an organization capable of infiltrating the immaculate order then I most certainly would love to hear about these illuminated!

Stark appears satisfied and happy that this has gone so good so far. Grabbing some water and what looks like meat he really can't exactly define in origin.

[WarDragon]

Larin. I have no quarrel with you or your people, nor do I seek it. In fact, if this works out I might actually become a productive member of society. Tea house owner, trade merchant lets see what happens.

Brandr. The truth is I do not know all that much about your kind, but I am smart enough to fear what I do not know. So please do not kill me or have your friends kill me and maybe we can be of use to each other?

If the two of you tell me what business to stay away from and what territories are yours and maybe we can come to a mutually beneficial understanding? But I will say this:

I think you two have a great deal of power between you the kind of power that reshapes cities. Should you decide to use that or want to come to mutually beneficial understanding my door is open and I am always willing to talk.
[/COLOR]



At breakfast, Larin listen to what Stark has to say before nodding. "Very well. If we are stating our goals like this, then let me be clear: I have no interest in territory. My people and I will go wherever is necessary to achieve what I have in mind for this city - strong leadership, someone with vision who will be able to break the cycle of growth and implosion that previous leaders of this city have always inevitably fallen into and raise this city up into something greater than what it currently is. Your plans sound like they would contribute to this, so you have my support."

"Of course I'm not going to kill you, Marius; you're too useful to kill, even if you weren't a Solar. Unlike Larin, I do have an interest in claiming territory in the city, the more the better. The entire city, if I can manage it. Since we're all laying our cards on the table here, I will as well; I mean to bring Fortitude into the war between the Silver Pact and the Realm, on the Lunars' side. Breaking that cycle is high on my list too; I don't intend for the Realm to stomp us like a bug. I mean for Fortitude to be a thorn in their side for as long as it takes to bring them down. I've got no illusions of it happening quickly, but helping to repel an attack by the dead, now, that would go a long way towards speeding things up."

"That's why I'm not sure about this plan of opening an Immaculate temple, even a fake one. Tell us more about this Order of the Illuminated, a religion that doesn't falsely name my kind Anathema."

[HalfTangible]

By the way.. who governs this city right now besides the warden? He does not appear to be the undisputed ruler? I am no foreign rebel or imperial spy and if introductions are required Stark of Varlock will of course introduce himself.


Most of you would know the answer to this.

Fortitude doesn't have a "true" ruler. Nominally, the prison-city is run by the watchmaster Final Gambit. However, he is but one of many vying for control of the place, and even he is only in control of the guard in name; it's clear even from your brief interactions that the Keeper of Chains is the one in charge. In practical terms, the prison is in control of various gangs, the most powerful and permanent of which have the support of at least some of the various gods. On occasion these gangs have allied with one another, and once every few generations such an alliance will become large enough to strike out at local provinces... but once the gangs have reached that point, the Realm or some other power usually notices and stomps the city back into the dirt.

[Volthawk]

Larin looks thoughtfully at Brandr, deciding which of his thoughts to speak and which to keep quiet about for now. This Pact of his left him a little uneasy, not particularly enthusiastic at the idea of turning the city to the service of another power and embroiling it into conflict with the Realm, but for the sake of keeping on good terms wiry Brandr he doesn't vocalise most of his concerns yet. "The gangs usually can never stand up to a Realm response. You think your leadership will be enough to make them into a force that will win instead?" He decides to mention at least a small part of his concerns. "What would allying with this Pact of yours do for the city?"

Realising nobody had answered Stark's questions about the city's governance, Larin shrugs. "The Warden doesn't rule much past the guard - although Final Gambit is supposedly in charge there - and his Court, and there is no ruler of the city, practically speaking. Best you get is a bunch of gangs working together for a while and collectively controlling most of the city's territory before collapsing apart again. That's what I'm talking about when it comes to fixing the city's cycle."

After a few more moments of thought, an idea comes to Larin. "Perhaps we could use this false temple to make the city more amenable to us. If Reflections is the only one leading the temple, that is potentially a useful way of influencing the people. After all it's not as if what she says there has to be the standard Immaculate dogma..."

[Justanotherhero]

For a moment Marius just sits there observing the news. Holy **** they are actually thinking about taking an entire city from the Realm. The idea itself is either brilliant or suicidal... at the moment he was definitely leaning towards suicidal.

Hmm.. And what is the Silver Pacts policy on sun chosen that happen to want to make a living in their territory if I may ask?

Marius sits there and looks at the food in front of him, remembering how much his last trip to the market for for cost and how much they paid for a meal at the Inn.

Remembering how much Food cost in the realm was not difficult. The Realm was famous among the more economically interested for its ability to feed all its citizens at all times. But what where the shipping rates for legal businesses again?


If the three of you are willing to invest that much effort in strengthening the city against the dead I will make you an offer: Using my funds and if Reflection agrees the name of an Immaculate seeking to feed the hungry, I will research if I can order food from the Realm and sell it here. I would donate part of it to the hungry in the city and would not aim to make more than 20% earnings. I might be wrong, but I think given the current conditions in the city this might help out a few people and might help feed the people.

But... I will only do so if I can be reasonably certain that Zenmul will not spoil my food before it reaches the city just to ensure his own power. Food gods are usually not that famous. I fear he might be promoting himself by spoiling food imports and limiting the supply. And while I dislike the Realm more than most people they do feed their people so they can fight against us.

[Eurus]

Saint of Heroes has been quiet, since the meeting with the Warden. Sitting at a table with Usho while Stark talks, he seems to be only half listening. It's not that it's not kind of interesting... it sounds like Stark has all sorts of grand ideas to try and improve the city, even if Saint's genuinely not sure if he's trying to form some kind of cult army or not. Getting in the middle of what's essentially a war between gods wouldn't be Saint's first choice, but there's no denying that some gods are better than others.

But... it's hard for him to focus on politics, right now. Well okay, it's hard for him to focus on politics ever. But right now in particular, something is bothering him. He speaks to Usho quietly, enough that it would be hard to overhear him without some focused effort.

"Have you found out anything about this 'Zenmul' figure? I haven't had much time to look around yet, but he's got to have a temple somewhere, right?"

[Justanotherhero]

Realising nobody had answered Stark's questions about the city's governance, Larin shrugs. "The Warden doesn't rule much past the guard - although Final Gambit is supposedly in charge there - and his Court, and there is no ruler of the city, practically speaking. Best you get is a bunch of gangs working together for a while and collectively controlling most of the city's territory before collapsing apart again. That's what I'm talking about when it comes to fixing the city's cycle."

After a few more moments of thought, an idea comes to Larin. "Perhaps we could use this false temple to make the city more amenable to us. If Reflections is the only one leading the temple, that is potentially a useful way of influencing the people. After all it's not as if what she says there has to be the standard Immaculate dogma..."

I am not the greatest warrior among our kind.
Marius faked being humble while it was in fact very very true.

Although I admit the negotiations towards a governing power would be very interesting. I have never tried to negotiate with that many potentially violent parties at once. But if you want to secure a contract of allegiance in a way that breaking it would have severe consequences I am able to help with that.

And I like the idea of rewriting and teaching the Immaculate dogma in a northern fashion. A bit more open minded this time? Usually Immaculate temples teach children to read and write. I think that is how they spread their creed in the first place?

[WarDragon]

Larin looks thoughtfully at Brandr, deciding which of his thoughts to speak and which to keep quiet about for now. This Pact of his left him a little uneasy, not particularly enthusiastic at the idea of turning the city to the service of another power and embroiling it into conflict with the Realm, but for the sake of keeping on good terms wiry Brandr he doesn't vocalise most of his concerns yet. "The gangs usually can never stand up to a Realm response. You think your leadership will be enough to make them into a force that will win instead?" He decides to mention at least a small part of his concerns. "What would allying with this Pact of yours do for the city?"

"It will bring the alliance and example of other Lunar Dominions, for a start. Especially that of my... teacher, the Spider King. Perhaps you've heard of him? Regardless, I don't plan on doing it overnight."


Hmm.. And what is the Silver Pacts policy on sun chosen that happen to want to make a living in their territory if I may ask?

He shrugs. "The Pact isn't a single government, so there is no single policy. It varies from one to the next, and depends on the Solar's actions. For myself, I'm certainly willing to work with those whose goals align with mine. Particularly when it comes to stopping these Deathknights from razing my city, and holding off the Wyld Hunt."

[HalfTangible]

Marius, you know that Aum-Ashtra the Spider King is a rather notorious Lunar Anathema in the north. He operates out of a mountain near the Black Shale road. You don't know a whole lot about the creature personally, but you know he is very old and very powerful even for one of the Anathema. His family can be found in many areas throughout the northern territories, and will gladly take in passengers as guests in exchange for favors. The Spider King is also known as... a "protector", of sorts. He demands tithes from those who travel the white sea or the Black Shale road, and those who don't often have... accidents.

Regardless, if Brandr were to gain the Spider King's support, that would be an incredible boon. An Elder Lunar's support would be worth as much as a large city from his domain alone. If the Spider King's children and/or other apprentices were to join in, you could establish your own kingdom in the north. With other Elder Lunars, that'd be enough power to take everything from Grieve to Port Calin.

[Justanotherhero]

"It will bring the alliance and example of other Lunar Dominions, for a start. Especially that of my... teacher, the Spider King. Perhaps you've heard of him? Regardless, I don't plan on doing it overnight."

" For myself, I'm certainly willing to work with those whose goals align with mine. Particularly when it comes to stopping these Deathknights from razing my city, and holding off the Wyld Hunt."

Marius thinks and silence.
It takes him a few seconds to internalize the meaning of what was just said. He does look surprised that things became so real.

Then even if we disagree on how to use the land after taking it from the dead. Dividing it up amongst ourselves is a plan we can all agree on or not?

I offer my services as a Logistics Officer.
I am no great warrior but transportation is a field that interests me.

What supplies do we need to achieve that? What supplies do we have to achieve that?
Given time I can try to answer those two questions..

[Apogee1]

Allev was mostly content to listen to the earlier part of the conversation. He did not have strong objections to an "Immaculate" temple run by the Illuminated, and, quite possibly, it would be something that both benefited the people here and represented another source of knowledge. He worried though, about some of the ideas that followed. Revolution, seizing land, fighting the realm. Beyond the futility of some of them -- turning this city into a functioning government would be near impossible, for starters -- changing from gang wars to a war with the realm was not going to improve the lives of anyone in this city. Well, he was not the leading type anyways, so he would keep trying to patch up what he could in the meanwhile.

Marius's talk of trade though, and the possibility of bringing in more food, that was something that interested him. Was it really less than two days ago his primary concern was trying to secure some of the very limited caravans coming through?

"Well, for starters, trade has been a mess for the past years here. This city needs it; being this far north means we import foodstuffs and plenty of other material. If our caravans ever actually get through to Grieve, the city has ores and herbs to sell, but for any given trip its a big risk." Towards the end of that sentence, he grimaces, as if remembering several unpleasant moments. "Stabilizing the routes is needed, so the flow of goods is actually possible, and there are lots of goods we could do with more of here. If you think you can help with that, I would be glad to work with you. I know a lot of traders here who could use more opportunities."

"I'm not sure on some of these longer term plans you all have been discussing, but we as a collective do represent a variety of interests and powers in the city, and I do think it would be best if we all agreed on dealing with certain threats and well, perhaps taking a collective interest in preserving the people of this city and each other. And well, I'm not an inspiring leader or writer of contracts, but I made these small tokens both as, I suppose gratitude for helping to keep the people of this city alive when many of you are new to it yourselves and as hope that we can keep doing good together in the future. And, of course, if you need any other items or healing I will do my best to be of assistance"

As he speaks the last part, he pulls five woven bands of silk, some cross between a headband or armband and a bandana, out from a pouch. Sky blue backgrounds shot through with patterns of gold, each features what a rendition of the respective caste icons, and a personal touch or two. For Brandr, silver features prominently, sketching an outline of the city with the full moon over it. Larin's uses darker tones, and shadows seem to appear and disappear from different perspectives. For Reflection, lines of white and brown interplay with the gold themes. A twirling staff in front of golden stars is the centerpiece of Saint's, and the band for Marius features faint hints of writing around a gold sun illuminating a world of colors. He'd worked on these earlier in the morning, drawing silk from his blade and weaving them by hand, tapping far deeper into supernatural accuracy than needed, but he wanted them to mean something. It was nice, making things partially just to look nice, but he thought they'd make acceptable tokens of thanks for their aid and demonstrate some hope for working together as well.



Rolled in discord, 12 successes, using craftsman needs no tools (peripheral) and a 10 mote excellency (personal)

Slightly overkill for a set of glorified bandanas, but hey, he wanted to make some are some nice bandanas :tongue:

[Justanotherhero]

Stabilizing the routes is needed, so the flow of goods is actually possible, and there are lots of goods we could do with more of here. If you think you can help with that, I would be glad to work with you. I know a lot of traders here who could use more opportunities.[/COLOR]"

"I'm not sure on some of these longer term plans you all have been discussing, but we as a collective do represent a variety of interests and powers in the city, and I do think it would be best if we all agreed on dealing with certain threats and well, perhaps taking a collective interest in preserving the people of this city and each other. And well, I'm not an inspiring leader or writer of contracts, but I made these small tokens both as, I suppose gratitude for helping to keep the people of this city alive when many of you are new to it yourselves and as hope that we can keep doing good together in the future. And, of course, if you need any other items or healing I will do my best to be of assistance"

And the band for Marius features faint hints of writing around a gold sun illuminating a world of colors. He'd worked on these earlier in the morning, drawing silk from his blade and weaving them by hand, tapping far deeper into supernatural accuracy than needed, but he wanted them to mean something. It was nice, making things partially just to look nice, but he thought they'd make acceptable tokens of thanks for their aid and demonstrate some hope for working together as well.

I believe that trade is important and will gladly help out.

Marius gladly takes the gift being offered and looks at it.
I used to wear a banner, at the time I didn`t think it was ...well it was normal. But after you start glowing and have to run... it is not like people invite you into society anymore. I ran and...

Marius pauses and looks at the banner ... his banner something from someone that actually knows what he is.

Thank you!

Collective interests I like how that sounds!

I could always use the help of a skilled craftsman but you are the first of our kind that I have the fortune of meeting. Maybe crafting is the way out of our trade problems? What is your stance on scary mammoth armor and a scary mammoth pulled wagon? I wanted to purchase some for a while, but they are not exactly standard issue. And might scare off robbers?

[Justanotherhero]

By the way, I know I am asking much and saying no is very much a option but can you maintain a wound to make it look like I heal like a normal person?

[Volthawk]

Larin nods as he accepts Allev's gift, considering the others' words. It was the first time he'd really talked about his ideas to people outside of the Order Below, and it was good to hear other perspectives. "I am willing to make such an agreement, yes. The enemy at the gates takes priority. To that end, I have disseminated my agents in the areas of the city immediately next to the Gallows - any significant changes will be noticed by someone, and it is my hope that my people can pick up on that. I have also kept people below, among those that work in the mines, in case Reflection's concern about the people there being susceptible to the Deathknights' influence, but I don't think we have to worry about that, given the opposition of the god below towards our enemies. We shall see, though." He pauses. "While the Gallows merit immediate attention, given what we saw, it may also be worth considering aggressive action sooner or later - they're based in a necropolis, far enough away to merit sorcerous travel but near enough for them to act here, and we may need to strike there once we're done clearing their influence on the city. On that note, Reflection, you know more about them than us. Does the name 'the Lover' mean anything to you? That seems to be the title of their leader."

[HalfTangible]

Winter is Coming
Session 2

"Death is nature's way of saying, 'Your table is ready'." -Robin Williams

[Fortitude]
The Fourth Day of Ascending Water

Four days have passed since the long night where the Keeper of Chains stole the fires of Fortitude. A young man, egged on by a rival diety, had absconded with the Keeper's exigence for his own. In a desperate bid to force him to come forward, the Warden god took the fires of Fortitude, putting every life in the city at terrible risk. In that dark winter night, a group of six great champions of the gods found common cause. Together they were able to talk the Keeper down, and recover the stolen Exigence. Now the group of six have united in purpose, the Keeper has his champion, and the city is a little safer.

But all is not well within the prison-city. The gangs of thugs remains as strong as ever, and many have been emboldened. The sudden action by the Keeper (resulting in no less than 63 deaths) did not go unquestioned by his citizens, and the guard has become the target of attacks and open rebellion. Many others, less loyal to the Warden, have walked away in protest as well. In addition, the champions that recovered the Exigence had discovered that there were enemies of all of Creation hiding within the city; Deathknights, the champions of the dead, unmakers of life and true Anathema to all of Creation.

These heroes have all made their mark upon the city already. The Keeper of Chains has one of his guards, Shungnis, serving as a liaison between him and this band of heroes.

Reflection of Hope, an Earth Aspect formerly of the Immaculate Order, towers over all she meets. She came to Fortitude originally on the directions of Syl Geas, her mentor in the Cult of the Illuminated. He has yet to appear, but in the meantime she has sought to establish a new branch of the Cult within the prison-city. Driven and resolute, her status as the only non-Anathema of the Circle has proven instrumental in their dealings with mortals, and likely shall again.

Larin Tanas is an assassin of the Order Below, out to make Fortitude a better place one corrupt, diseased body at a time. The cycle that Fortitude has fallen into is not an acceptable state of affairs, and he shall change it. No one is beyond his grasp.

Saint of Heroes is an idealistic man from Whitewall out to make the world a better place. Those who see his striking red cloak know who he is. He is a selfless hero worthy of the name and definitely not a thief out for his own glory. Stop looking at me like that, it's true. Completely. Especially the part about how he's famous the world over. Just you wait, and you'll see.

Alleviating Hands of the Unyielding (also called Allev) is a humble craftsman and doctor. Once idealistic and compassionate, the dark scar that is Fortitude beat his hopes into the dirt until there was none left. Now of the Twilight, he has the power to make his old dreams into reality.

Brandr is a Full Moon warrior and gang leader within the city. Student to the Spider King, the imposing powerhouse has made himself into a force to be reckoned with and gathered a number of criminals around him in a shockingly short time frame.

Marius Maralanka (also called Stark) is a confident eastern man of the Eclipse Caste, and he has already developed a bit of a reputation in Fortitude. He has called the others to help him with a project. The deathknights were discovered hiding in an area of the city known as the Broken Gallows. It is an abandoned place, with no one living; but the dead linger there, and come out at night. If the circle is able to cleanse this place of the underworld's dark influence, the Gallows may serve as a central point to expand out from.

You've all met up with Marius outside of the Broken Gallows for this exact purpose (or wherever he specified you should meet up).

What do you do?

((Please note that this session is gonna go a lot slower. I've got training all of this next week))

[WarDragon]

Brandr accepts Allev's gift as graciously as he can. "Thank you. It will be good to no longer hide what I am."

==============

Despite his newly gathered gang, Brandr has come alone to the meeting. If they're going to be fighting ghosts, he doesn't want to put his new followers at too much risk; this is a job for the Chosen. "Greetings. Everyone ready to clean up this mess?"

[DrakeRaids]

Reflection smirked as she took the bandana, looking at it with surprising reverence. "Thanks, I'll make sure to hold onto it." It made sense though, when you thought about it. A former monk, now on the run, for her adult life there had likely been very few things that she could really say she owned, that were hers. More often than not it was borrowed tools, stolen clothes, things taken in times of need. A gift was... pleasant to the Dragon-Blooded. She stayed silent on the subject of the Realm though. She didn't think that trying to plan to go to war with them would be particularly fruitful, honestly. With the Scarlet Empress gone, the place was in chaos and she half expected news of civil war every other day. It was going to tear itself apart if something didn't change soon and...

Well, while a Lunar wouldn't want to hear this, the Realm did a lot at keeping the darkness at bay.

Fortifying this place, turning it into a bastion? It may not be a bad idea. If not for the reasons he was putting forth.

After things settled down a little more, she began to explain about the Order of the Illuminated. She focused on the specifics of the organization and goals over the exact philosophy. She explained about the concept of the Shining Ones, prophesied to come to aid Creation in its time of need, as well as the Illuminated Kingdom, a supposed golden age that they would be able to create but they were not the focus on the message. These people seemed more... Pragmatic than your usual recruit, and dogma was unlikely to interest them overtly. Instead she explained about the threats that were said to manifest, from outside Creation and within, and how the empire of the Dragon-Blooded would fall to infighting and corruption, and be unable to stand against the coming darkness.

Exactly as was happening now.

The Illuminated was no longer content to wait, and was actively seeking out the Shining Ones, whom she, and several of the key members of the Order of Illuminated believed to be the returning Celestial Exalted. She explained how they had been appearing in numbers far in excess of what had been previously reported, and now they wished to not just protect them from the Wyld Hunt, but also provide them with resources and tools they would need to not only survive, but build something that could stand against the destruction that was foreseen.

Or, in short. The world is broken. You can look after your own interests for only so long before destruction comes knocking on your own homes door.

She was cagey about the specifics of the codes and ways to reach them, for obvious reasons there. They had only just met, and while she was genial and laughing, happy to eat and drink with them, the idea of being careful who she could trust was built deep these days. She mentioned that not all spirits or gods of Heaven liked this new status quo, nor understood the danger that Creation faced, but was quick to move on from the dangers and into the organization, discussing how individual cells where often managed, and what she knew of the hierarchy. She was a 'middle level'. She didn't belong to any particular cell, and reported directly to the Orders Inner Circle, but wasn't part of them herself. Finishing and touching back onto the doctrine, she finally explained why she ended up joining.

"It was a dark place. I had seen how much danger the world really was in? I had finally realized the Realm couldn't protect everyone. That we couldn't keep doing the same thing to stop what was coming. In the end thats what did it for me. More than a replacement faith, I fight for the Illuminated and for their Illuminated Kingdom because... The world is in trouble. And no one else has a plan, has a solution. Has hope. I'll fight for that. I'll fight for hope."

As for what brought here there...

She took a breath, and told the story of the Port town of Asti.

She told about tracking a solar when she was still a monk, and capturing him. Of the Deathknight falling upon the town, seeking something? She didn't know, but she destroyed the docks, slaughtered the people and was taking no prisoners. Men, women, children, it made no difference, all that life was just fuel to her. The Wyld Hunt tried to stop her and failed, two of their own number falling and bound into terrible ghosts. The solar boy, he begged to help, and Reflection freed him to fight. He battled the Death Knight while the Wyld Hunt bested the dead, and though he died he wounded her enough that she was forced to flee.

She explained what she had learned in that fight.

Death Knights can cross salt without issue, its no defense against them. Other wards that trigger off undead in similar ways seem drastically less effective, but it is still effective against their minions. They seem to feed off death, the more death suffuses an area the stronger they get. They attacked at night, she wasn't sure if that was for the benefit of the creatures she led, or the Death Knight herself though, but they are potentially averse to natural light. They can be hurt, and seem to fear death, and take wounds in a manner more like a mortal than a spirit. The also do not appear to be able to become Immaterial, like a spirit, and are bound to the physical plane like a moving corpse would be.

Relevant information, in the immediate future, though admittedly more incomplete than she'd like.

[Justanotherhero]

After the conversation they had days earlier Marius was not ready. The Wyld Hunt is the reason Marius devoted so much time and energy into staying hidden. He did not want to fight 5 fully trained armed and experienced Dragon Blooded and die.
If these Deathknights can fight the Wyld Hunt and leave this would not be simply grabbing free real estate the way he had hoped.

The Fall of the realm was not something Marius was looking forward to. The realm is a large force in trade without that force things were bound to go wrong. People that need food might not get it for example.

Rising darkness that the shining ones were supposed to protect against sounded to him a bit strange ... But somehow approbiate?

Marius would love to know why more Solars were appearing then before.
But the information Reflection was giving him was valuable even if it was merely a opinion of a large group of obviously powerful beings.

If what was said was remotely true Marius will have to adapt his strategy.
The information about Deathknights did not make Marius happy but new information has value on its own.

"Thank you!.I admit I do not fully understand everything you just said but thank you for sharing that information! Maybe it will save a few people!

----4Days later---+

Stark approached the group and bowed before the Dragon Blooded.
He is pulling a wagon loaded with ash, salt, what looks like drawing tools, scales, barrels of what appears to be cheap but strong liquor and prayer trinkets.

In his wisdom the Hearthlord has decided to send aid. This is Lady Flia :

He bows and steps aside so the group can see a fire red peacock follwed by Sir Vor himself.

The Hearthlords hopes that with the help of Sir Vor and Lady Flia any left over remnants in the ground will be found and burnt so they can no longer be used by the enemies of this city. I will do my best to assist in this endeavor.

[Justanotherhero]

So we burn things down until the sun goes down and leave then or?
Stark looked like he was genuinely waiting for a more innovative ideas.

[WarDragon]

"Why would we leave at nightfall?," Brandr asks. "I don't know about you, but I'm here to destroy hungry ghosts, not just keep them contained."

[Justanotherhero]

"To be honest from what I found in the literature most authors said step one create a salt ward, step two burn the bodies of any unburied dead and give proper burial rites and if that doesn't work and there are no immaculate monks around find a new place for a settlement. Not very innovative but that is what most books said. I don't actually know how to destroy them if not burning the body of the dead. I am sure some magic could accomplish this but it is not magic I have at my disposal. I guess others here have this sort of power?

Stark looks around with hope in his eyes since he now believes Brandr and Reflection will competently deal with the problem.

[DrakeRaids]

Reflection, despite having a temperament that reflected her parents blessing of Hesiesh, was intensely a child of Pasiap when it came to her methodology.

She was careful, when it came to growing the Cult of the Illuminated in Fortitude, slow but certain and precise. She could have gone out and gave a grand sermon that likely could have converted much of the town, but even though the Realm was in turmoil and conflicted in matters of succession, she did not think it wise to openly rebel against Immaculate teachings in a valuable mining town that was ostensibly a satrap of the the Empire. So she played at her part.

As far as most people in the town knew, she was an Immaculate Monk on a pilgrimage to whom the Warden had convinced to look after his new Exigent for a brief time. And that was fine. She acted as a Monk should, heaven knew she had actual practice on that front, but her teachings where just slightly subversive, speaking about the merits of questioning and talking about the Immaculate Creed as metaphor more than myth. Not heretical par se but allowing her to lay some important foundations.

And if she found someone she thought who would be particularly receptive to the words of the Illuminate she would speak to them privately, not about the Illuminated, just to know them. To learn more about them and their ideas. She had spoken to no one of the cult, not yet. Care. If one wished to raise a grand tower you must ensure the foundation is strong.

When the gift of tools to deal with the dead arrived... She nodded, in approval.

"This is going to be useful. We'll need a place to store much of it, but for now I want to start setting up salt circles in various parts of the city. A single large circle? That's going to be easy to break and difficult to build, but if the Death Knights have to waste their time trying to find numerous smaller circles and break them all to allow their servants to work, then we have time to fight back. Some kinds of Illuminated Ones, ah, 'Solars' or 'Golden Anathema' have the ability to purify the dead, so the writings say. And it matches with what I saw, the one who... helped me was able to do it somehow but I didn't exactly have time to play twenty questions on it."

"We should probably train up the militia so they know what to expect, and maybe run some drills on evacuating civilians to warded areas when the attack comes. I'm not much of a general so I'll probably pass on that. We also probably want someone to investigate the lower mines you all mentioned before. We need some sharper eyes down there, I'm not tactical genius but if I was going to stage an attack that's how I'd do it. Ideally someone whose good at not being noticed. I'll see what I can do about organizing all of this and preparing places to deal with the bodies, to consecrate and destroy them."

[Justanotherhero]

Stark nooded towards Reflection and Brandr and began searching in one of the larger bags for chalk and while he was still close enough to participate in the conversation began drawing a symbol on a piece of wood that he was about to lay on the ground.
Pretty soon it became clear this symbol represented some form of fire elemental.

Marius received his magical teaching from an Ifrit Lord. He is now beginning his offer, not of the bodies but the physical things within the neighborhood, old buildings etc.

[Justanotherhero]

4 created symbols later.After hearing the short conversation that had occured Stark nodded in agreement and went to work. Stepping forward a shield in his left hand and his right hand resting on his blade he began walking calling out loud:

"Hear ,hear!
It has been declared that these ruins will be cleared!
Hear ,hear!
It has been declared that these ruins will be given to the cleared!
Please gather your things and move to the tavern "Laughing Bear".
Hear ,hear!
It has been declared that these ruins will be given to the cleared!
Please gather your things and move."

[HalfTangible]

After the conversation they had days earlier Marius was not ready. The Wyld Hunt is the reason Marius devoted so much time and energy into staying hidden. He did not want to fight 5 fully trained armed and experienced Dragon Blooded and die.
If these Deathknights can fight the Wyld Hunt and leave this would not be simply grabbing free real estate the way he had hoped.

The Fall of the realm was not something Marius was looking forward to. The realm is a large force in trade without that force things were bound to go wrong. People that need food might not get it for example.

Rising darkness that the shining ones were supposed to protect against sounded to him a bit strange ... But somehow approbiate?

Marius would love to know why more Solars were appearing then before.
But the information Reflection was giving him was valuable even if it was merely a opinion of a large group of obviously powerful beings.

If what was said was remotely true Marius will have to adapt his strategy.
The information about Deathknights did not make Marius happy but new information has value on its own.

"Thank you!.I admit I do not fully understand everything you just said but thank you for sharing that information! Maybe it will save a few people!

----4Days later---+

Stark approached the group and bowed before the Dragon Blooded.
He is pulling a wagon loaded with ash, salt, what looks like drawing tools, scales, barrels of what appears to be cheap but strong liquor and prayer trinkets.

In his wisdom the Hearthlord has decided to send aid. This is Lady Flia :

He bows and steps aside so the group can see a fire red peacock follwed by Sir Vor himself.

The Hearthlords hopes that with the help of Sir Vor and Lady Flia any left over remnants in the ground will be found and burnt so they can no longer be used by the enemies of this city. I will do my best to assist in this endeavor.

The majestic phoenix bows her head. "I also accept 'your grace', 'your worship', and 'the hottest thing north of the fire pole.'"

Vor turned his head with a slow grinding sound to look at Flia.

"... What?"


4 created symbols later.After hearing the short conversation that had occured Stark nodded in agreement and went to work. Stepping forward a shield in his left hand and his right hand resting on his blade he began walking calling out loud:

"Hear ,hear!
It has been declared that these ruins will be cleared!
Hear ,hear!
It has been declared that these ruins will be given to the cleared!
Please gather your things and move to the tavern "Laughing Bear".
Hear ,hear!
It has been declared that these ruins will be given to the cleared!
Please gather your things and move."

Stark, you move around the Broken Gallows, calling out that the area is to be evacuated. For most of your journey around the Broken Gallows, this goes without incident. Some ask who you are or on whose authority you speak, but almost all of them clear out quickly when you mention the Warden sent you. There's some gangsters who put on a show of force, but they don't stick around; probably presuming that they can just come back after the fireworks. There's far fewer people than you were expecting; perhaps the Broken Gallows are that superstitious a place.

Speaking of which, when you go to enter the Broken Gallows proper, Shungnis grabs you and pull you away from the entrance.

"N'body lives in there." She assures you. "All ye can find's ghosts and angry ghosts."

[Justanotherhero]

Speaking of which, when you go to enter the Broken Gallows proper, Shungnis grabs you and pull you away from the entrance.

"N'body lives in there." She assures you. "All ye can find's ghosts and angry ghosts."

""Well then I guess we are done. Let`s hope you are right I do not want to create another ghost.

I guess Lady Flia should light the initial flame unless one of you wants to?

[WarDragon]

Brandr shucks his buff jacket and works to create a firebreak under Allev's direction, laboring tirelessly under the sun with only a slight expenditure of essence.

5 sux on aid another roll, which I believe is 5 bonus dice to Allev's craft.

[Justanotherhero]

After walking around the Gallows Stark approaches the group and begins drawing a crude map sectioning the Gallows into smaller pieces. Pieces that look reasonable to any observer and might provide great opportunity.
After all the ashes of a haunted place might be a potent ingredient in artifacts?

"So if we section these houses and use that old road to end the fire that could be turned into 6 different sections...

[HalfTangible]

Brandr, your work goes well and without incident.

Lady Flia's wings rustle and crackle, sparks leaping into the air at her impatience. "Are we to begin immediately on one of these sections, then? I am eager to see this place catch and burn."

[Justanotherhero]

I would say so Noble Lady. I would guess starting in one of the middle sections would be wise. Just in case things do not go as planned?
Please feel free to do the honors!

Stark points raises his hand to one of the middle sections , since if things go wrong they could be more limited by only having one "dangerous" side. Then bows and gains a very decent amount of distance before he begins praying, in this case to the Ifrit Lord that was kind enough to offer his wisdom back then. On one knee he offers the remnants of a time that maybe one day will be forgotten to a fire lord. Hopefully what the fire takes will no longer be able to harbour the dead.

[HalfTangible]

[The Gallows Burn]

Lady Flia is utterly giddy to begin burning away the Broken Gallows. The Guard have set up with you, ready for anything. With a proper firebreak set up, Stark gives Lady Flia the signal, and she flies into the air above the first section of the desiccated neighborhood to be burned. The multicolored phoenix circles above the area once before blowing a stream of fire across the neighborhood. The land quickly catches alight, and you feel the heat of the enormous fire slowly rise. Even from this distance, the fire Lady Flia has started is scalding, especially compared to the winter air. The smell of smoke fills the air. Someone in the crowd of guards whistles.

Lady Flia does not stop raising the fire, and from a distance you can hear her laughing. Stark, you get the sense that the Ifrit Lord you have your pact with is taking this offering in stride; building material that nobody uses is not exactly a great sacrifice, but there's so much of it he's happy with it anyway (You gain 3 sorcerous motes)

... And then something shoots straight up into the air, a black tendril of energy that crackles like lightning. At the same moment you register this, something else shoots into the air and strikes through Lady Flia. She screeches with pain, and whatever cut through her turns around and streaks back towards the ground.

The tendril of energy expands outward into a wide column, darker than the blackest void. It spreads outward from a central point in the broken neighborhood, swallowing up not only the fire but your sight of Lady Flia. The column stretches on for what seems an eternity, and it envelops the entirety of the Broken Gallows. You cannot see through it, and sounds seem to have vanished from the air as well. The guards glance between one another, many of them stepping back from the column of shadow.

Stark, Alleviating Hands Unyielding, you both recognize this as an Impenetrable Veil of Night. It's not behaving precisely as the spell you're familiar with, but a massive column of shadow that covers a wide area is something you know from your studies. It will dissipate in a day, but that is a day that whoever just struck Lady Flia has to operate with impunity.

Reflection... while your education isn't as thorough as theirs, you've seen this spell before. In a little port town called Asti. It was raised over the town right before the Weeper of Lost Stars attacked.

What do you do?

[Justanotherhero]

Stark turns to the exalts so only they can hear him.
"This shouldn't... it work like that.

Veil of Night the spell does not work like that. Whoever is doing this is controlling this spell in shape more then it should be possible.

It should not perfectly encompasses the Broken Gallows it is not a perfect 1 mile circle.
Normally this spell creates dark night. Very dark night that makes it hard for the sorcerer and for other people to see for an entire day over a large area. But..

There's a feeling of death, of rotting flesh and the cold wind of a graveyard, that doesn't normally happen.

This Veil was erected with the dead in mind; it's not just darkness. Almost a shadowland in miniature, but it feels like an overstatement.... Somehow.

I don't know if it does blind the people inside. It should but..


I owe it to Flia to try and rescue her. I just hope that she still exists to be rescued..

[DrakeRaids]

"She's here."

The Dragon Blooded had been on high alert, and was now ready to spring into action. She had to wonder, would she die today? Possibly. She was afraid of that. For all her boisterousness and pride... Reflection had looked death in the eye once before, and she had blinked first. Her hand gripped tight on her massive maul, as she slung it over her shoulder. "Or someone very much like her, I've seen that spell before, at the town I told you. We need to move, quickly. If we can rush the death knight down quickly before they can sup fully ont he dead and dying we'll still have the advantage. This isn't their ground yet."

"But it will be soon."

[Apogee1]

Alleviating Hands Unyielding was vexed. Finally, finally this city had people who were going to start to clean it up. For once, the city guard seemed willing to do something more, something better. It was a strange group, that he'd fallen in with recently. Thieves, assassins, a Dragon-Blooded who seemed not only to tolerate but encourage the presence of Solars, a gang leader. Strange allies indeed, but allies they were, people who all for their own reasons decided that uplifting this city was for the best. No longer was he alone. And now, as the plan his allies worked on, the plan to remove the undead blight from this city once and for all, was getting started, some sorcerer (probably one of those Deathknights they had ran into and Reflection had told them more about) was trying to stop it. This would not stand.

As Darkness spread, Allev frowned. This ... was a Impenetrable Veil of Night, a powerful working. But it was not behaving as the texts said it would. Stark seemed to agree, and Allev thought on his words for a moment. It seemed increasingly likely it was the Deathknights, with how the man described it. As he studied it himself, Allev had to agree. This magic was otherly, unnatural. Nonetheless, he could wrench some control over it. A Twilight, after all, was the line between the world and these dark magics. Or something like that. Reflection probably had better information on his own role than he did.

"Well, Reflection, let's keep it from being their ground. I suggest standing back slightly. I've read the theory on this, but its been hard to practice. Hostile sorcerers to wrest the magic from have been in relatively short supply in this city."

Bravado aside, he was somewhat worried. But there was nothing to do but try. First, he threw down a circle of thin, green herbs, and rubs a thin poultice into his finger tips. The extension of Essence from within to without was far easier with a mediating agent. Slowing his breathing, Allev knelt in the middle of the circle.

In his first breath, he circulated his essence, running it down his channels, holding it in his body. In the second, he pulled, and ambient motes flowed towards him. The third, he brushed his fingers over the circle and released, a stream of water flowing over the circle. Three more breaths to stabilize and strengthen the circle, feeding a few threads from the Distaff into it and he was ready. Outwards flowed the water, towards the darkness, and he felt the influence of another holding the spell. Now ... there. Allev felt a weakness, a small portion he could twist, and heaved the energy to one side.

[HalfTangible]

Stark turns to the exalts so only they can hear him.
"This shouldn't... it work like that.

Veil of Night the spell does not work like that. Whoever is doing this is controlling this spell in shape more then it should be possible.

It should not perfectly encompasses the Broken Gallows it is not a perfect 1 mile circle.
Normally this spell creates dark night. Very dark night that makes it hard for the sorcerer and for other people to see for an entire day over a large area. But..

There's a feeling of death, of rotting flesh and the cold wind of a graveyard, that doesn't normally happen.

This Veil was erected with the dead in mind; it's not just darkness. Almost a shadowland in miniature, but it feels like an overstatement.... Somehow.

I don't know if it does blind the people inside. It should but..


I owe it to Flia to try and rescue her. I just hope that she still exists to be rescued..


"She's here."

The Dragon Blooded had been on high alert, and was now ready to spring into action. She had to wonder, would she die today? Possibly. She was afraid of that. For all her boisterousness and pride... Reflection had looked death in the eye once before, and she had blinked first. Her hand gripped tight on her massive maul, as she slung it over her shoulder. "Or someone very much like her, I've seen that spell before, at the town I told you. We need to move, quickly. If we can rush the death knight down quickly before they can sup fully ont he dead and dying we'll still have the advantage. This isn't their ground yet."

"But it will be soon."


Alleviating Hands Unyielding was vexed. Finally, finally this city had people who were going to start to clean it up. For once, the city guard seemed willing to do something more, something better. It was a strange group, that he'd fallen in with recently. Thieves, assassins, a Dragon-Blooded who seemed not only to tolerate but encourage the presence of Solars, a gang leader. Strange allies indeed, but allies they were, people who all for their own reasons decided that uplifting this city was for the best. No longer was he alone. And now, as the plan his allies worked on, the plan to remove the undead blight from this city once and for all, was getting started, some sorcerer (probably one of those Deathknights they had ran into and Reflection had told them more about) was trying to stop it. This would not stand.

As Darkness spread, Allev frowned. This ... was a Impenetrable Veil of Night, a powerful working. But it was not behaving as the texts said it would. Stark seemed to agree, and Allev thought on his words for a moment. It seemed increasingly likely it was the Deathknights, with how the man described it. As he studied it himself, Allev had to agree. This magic was otherly, unnatural. Nonetheless, he could wrench some control over it. A Twilight, after all, was the line between the world and these dark magics. Or something like that. Reflection probably had better information on his own role than he did.

"Well, Reflection, let's keep it from being their ground. I suggest standing back slightly. I've read the theory on this, but its been hard to practice. Hostile sorcerers to wrest the magic from have been in relatively short supply in this city."

Bravado aside, he was somewhat worried. But there was nothing to do but try. First, he threw down a circle of thin, green herbs, and rubs a thin poultice into his finger tips. The extension of Essence from within to without was far easier with a mediating agent. Slowing his breathing, Allev knelt in the middle of the circle.

In his first breath, he circulated his essence, running it down his channels, holding it in his body. In the second, he pulled, and ambient motes flowed towards him. The third, he brushed his fingers over the circle and released, a stream of water flowing over the circle. Three more breaths to stabilize and strengthen the circle, feeding a few threads from the Distaff into it and he was ready. Outwards flowed the water, towards the darkness, and he felt the influence of another holding the spell. Now ... there. Allev felt a weakness, a small portion he could twist, and heaved the energy to one side.

At Reflection's words, Osirle glances up from his contingent of guard. "I hope you don't mind, ma'am, but the guard isn't built for deathknights. We're going to leave this to your circle of friends and just try and stop anything that comes out of that giant tower of darkness. Hope you understand."

A wise man once said that the essence of a spell is like metal; it's nigh impossible to break, but with the proper application of heat, it can be bent into shape. Allev's foray into the dead essence feels less like bending metal and more like parting dead flesh for an autopsy. As he shifts and bends the essence of the spell, he steps forward towards the shadowed wall, and the rest of the circle sees the darkness begin to bend ahead of him. As he continues to chant and weave his hands, the shadows begin to retreat further and further from him, until eventually you can see the ground a fair distance away (medium range).

Allev successfully Distorts the Impenetrable Veil of Night! The darkness now keeps back from him up to medium range. Others who step outside of this area are still surrounded by darkness.

[Justanotherhero]

Stark was not happy. What should have been a day of pretty fire works followed by a nice barbecue and taking possession of free real estate has turned into what might be a genuine problem. Turning again to the other exalts.


"Very Impressive Allev! You might have just saved alot of lives.

OK they are not willing. But it needs to be done anyway.
We go in and start burning things that we can see, if somebody attacks us we take them out. If we manage to burn the whole thing down and save Flia in the process we can definitely call it success. Does that sound like a decent plan?

With that Stark starts handing out torches to the people that would carry one including himself. After that he grabs the cart and begins pushing it from behind.


r. "We need to move, quickly. If we can rush the death knight down quickly before they can sup fully ont he dead and dying we'll still have the advantage. This isn't their ground yet."

"But it will be soon."

Then I guess we have no time to lose and no better plan. I will follow inward. Let's hope the fire keeps them busy until we arrive.

[WarDragon]

"Very Impressive Allev! You might have just saved alot of lives."

"Yes, starting with ours I hope. Everyone ready? This will be a fierce fight," Brandr says with an equally fierce grin. "I'd best prepare."

His form shifts and flows, face stretching out into a muzzle as black fur sprouts from his skin. He doesn't drop to all fours, but his legs become digitigrade as he gains almost a foot of height and his already impressive muscles swell with lupine power. He throws back his head and lets out a howl, Full Moon caste mark shining forth on his brow. "Let the hunt begin!"

Activating Hybrid Body Transformation and Deadly Beastman Transfmoration.

[HalfTangible]

[Under the Veil of Night]

It is a strange feeling, to walk into the Veil. Surrounding Allev, out to medium range, you can see the ground. Brandr's caste mark gives the area the ethereal off-white beauty of a moonlit night, and yet despite this the darkness around you is unyielding. It flows back, occasionally, as buildings and other objects poke through, but the veil itself remains as black and solid as a moonless night (sans stars). Sounds seem to echo in this place, and sounds from past the area Allev has cleared for you seem muted. With the exception of the soft light of Brandr's anima (and yours, if you've lit them) colors are dull, almost entirely washed out.

You walk through ruined buildings and hollowed out neighborhoods, the barred windows and occasionally barred doors a constant reminder that this place was a prison. The smell of rot and sense of decay is overpowering. It's as if every dead soul that ever perished here is watching you... yet none come to challenge you. As you make your way towards the center where something struck Lady Flia down, you start to feel the heat of her fire. However, it's somewhat like a fire behind glass or perhaps a thick curtain. Even when you step forward, and a burning building comes into view, the heat of the bright blue fire feels reduced. There are whispers here, much like when you first met with the Unhallowed Heart.

The building ahead of you looks like a barracks. The fire has almost entirely consumed it, to the degree that it's somewhat surprising it can stand.

The voices grow louder.

Lady Flia is nowhere to be seen.

((Perception+Awareness, everyone))

[Justanotherhero]

This was bad. Marius did not anticipate this and definitely did not want to test his luck. A plan was made so he would stick to it.
On the way inward Marius stays close to Allev and uses the lines seperating the supposed fires to spread oil and small bits of wood on flammable items. Then lighting them aflame with his torch. If they really are using undead creatures to extinguish the flames might as well make those creatures work for it.
And if this was really there last stand he would make sure people would notice he was here.

It was only when they came close to the central house that he noticed these flames might serve another purpose:
A little bit of light might be what they desperately need.

[HalfTangible]

As the group continues walking forward, you're suddenly hit by a deathly, horrific stench that makes your stomach churn in reviled disgust. It does not take long for you to find the source of the clinging, cloying stench: corpses begin appearing in your radius of sight, rotted and dead. The air feels wet and clammy.

Brandr and Larin Tanas, you notice there's signs on the ground, blood trails and such, that indicate the bodies were dragged to this area from further inward. They've been placed haphazardly; it seems almost like someone has set this area up to look like a battle. However, it seems to have been finished in a rush, and while the bodies should be fresh, they're not. They look like they've been rotting in this place for at least a week.

Marius... everything seems fine. Aside from the fact that the ground is covered with bodies. Allev, you can hear armor clinking in the darkness behind your group. Someone is trying to sneak up behind you. Brandr, your sense of hearing is more refined, so you can tell there's two sets of armor coming in from behind you. Larin Tanas, you hear something buzzing and whirling ahead of the group, something that is groaning but also trying very hard to keep it hidden.

All of them are trying to keep quiet. It seems that the dead will not be giving this place up without a fight.

... And then Larin sees one of the bodies twitch, and its head turn just a little bit to face them.

What do you do?

((Ambush incoming. The passage about who saw and heard what does not fully reflect the stealth rolls of the enemy and your perception rolls. Presenting it this way just seemed to flow better. We'll cover it if/when the fighting starts.

Either way, time to Join Battle. Also, roll Stamina + Resistance, TN 2.))

[Volthawk]

The choking rot, the noises ahead and the movement at his feet are enough to get Larin moving. He doesn't speak a word, however - that would rather betray the point of what he was doing, and he expected at least a few of the others were smart enough to figure out what was going on. Instead, he simply moves, dashing through the miasma before it took hold of his senses and darting into the natural shadows Alev's countermagic hadn't touched, his robes blending into the darkness as he settles into a favourable position, chains forming from underneath his sleeves as he prepares for the first strike. If the dead wanted to play at using darkness, stealth and ambushes, he had no issue beating them at their own game.

They did stink, though. He wasn't particularly used to the smell - he was usually long gone and had nothing left to do with bodies when they reached this stage - and he started to feel it distract him as he lurked in the shadows.

[WarDragon]

Brandr chokes down a gag at the smell of rotting flesh. However, it's not distracting enough to keep him from noticing the twitching bodies and the clinking of armor behind them. His warrior's reflexes react without conscious thought.

"Ambush!," he cries as he leaps to the attack.

Two successes on the Stamina roll, and four on Join Battle.

[Apogee1]

What was that repulsive stench? Allev wondered, gagging slightly as he divides his attention between skimming the border of the lightened region and making sure the distortion holding back the darkness stayed around him. It was difficult, with a deeply physical reaction to the smell. If he'd had time and a few herbs, perhaps he could whip something up to bolster his and his allies constitution against it. Yes he probably could, he'd been reading about a few methods they used in ... but that didn't matter right now, he realizes, shaking his head.

Doing so, he hears a slight clink from behind him, and then a heartbeat later Brandr's cry of ambush. Spinning about with his strange, silk wrapped sword to his side, he looks for what is approaching them.

[Justanotherhero]

Stark stands there lifting his coat to his nose. "What..." He appears rather confused.

[HalfTangible]

Marius doesn't have long to consider his comrade's words.

The corpses' eyes begin to glow with a horrid red balefire. As one unit, they rise from the ground and begin moving towards the group.

Stealth now abandoned, the quiet clinking from before turns into a cacophony of banging metal. Two suits of armor rush from the shadows behind you, each wielding a large sword. Neither has an occupant as far as you can see, but they glow from within with an ethereal light. Ahead of you, a whirling storm screeches and hollers as it barrels from the shadows.

Larin Tanas' turn!

This is an ambush. If you are attacked during this round by a creature you were unaware of BEFORE you get a chance to act your defense is treated as 0.

Stealth Checks

War ghost Bill: 3
War ghost Ted: 1
Mortwight: 2
Size 1 Zombies: 7 (yes, really. Order action.)
???: 16

Awareness Checks
Larin Tanas: 8sux
Brandr: 6sux
Allev: 1sux
Marius: 0sux

Initiative:

Larin Tanas (in concealment): 22
??? (in concealment): 16
Brandr: 7
Zombie Battle Group: 6
Marius: 5
War Ghost A: 5
War Ghost B: 4
Mortwight: 4
Allev: 4

[Volthawk]

From his hiding place, Larin surveys the targets as they appear. Whatever that was coming from the front was outside of his field of expertise - he didn't know what he was looking at, but he guessed that it needed some kind of occult response rather than a relatively mundane strike from the shadows. The other ones, though...he was more used to attacking armour when there were flesh and blood people in there, but he could improvise. He takes a moment to observe his target before breaking from his cover and drawing on his belt and his mystical training to make something in the way of shadow and cover from the more or less nothing, timing his movements perfectly to avoid being spotted by the undead horde or his prey. When they don't seem to notice him, he lets out a silent sight. It was a little reassuring to see how the undead could be beaten by his talents like the living. He had been a little concerned about the prospect of fighting things that were already dead (not that he let it show), but things looked promising.

[WarDragon]

Brandr sweeps his spear through the gang of zombies with stunning speed and irresistible force, knocking their formation into disarray, and positioning himself for a strike at the more powerful undead.

7 successes against the zombies on a withering attack. Total damage dealt is 9.

[Justanotherhero]

Violence has the tendency to show ugly truth.
Stark if Varlok carries himself as a warrior. The unconquered sun reveals what truly is. In a moment of genuine fear Marius relies in old instincts and fear. Fear that has dominated his live for ... Longer then he cares to admit.

Stark ignores his shield and his torch as he instinctively jumps to cover his face with arm and knee.
Not a noble warrior but a man gifted by the unconquered sun ,used fighting in the streets and living in fear.Defense 5 ( 8 motes) + Stunt

[Apogee1]

Seeing the approaching animated armor, Allev clenches his sword tighter and carefully tracks their approach. Too carefully, perhaps, as he fails to notice the approach of other enemies until the last second.

With a flicker of movement registering in the side of his eye, he dropped back, starting to shift his stance to bring his silk-wrapped sword about. It was going to be too slow, he could tell, too slow. Some Exalted he would be, run through by a corpse in his first fight against the forces of darkness. No. This would not be his fate. Pushing essence into his arm, he swings faster than the eye can follow, getting set just as the swarm of flesh reaches him. A gold circle flairs on his forehead and the grey silk covering his blade retracts slightly, shifting patterns of red and gold peeking through. His scowl deepens and body dances as he is beset.

[HalfTangible]

Alleviating Hands Unyielding and Marius are both caught off guard by the sudden rush of undead bodies around them. Brandr's spear comes up and the beastman roars his challenge; But the horde is mindless, it does not know to fear the Lunar Exalted. And so it charges through, each and every one of them biting at the champions of the gods...

... and yet, you are not called such for nothing. The three of you (Larin Tanas has disappeared somewhere) strike back against the horde, most only barely able to keep them at bay, but Brandr's great spear cleaves through the horde like a hot knife through butter. Even caught off guard, you're keeping them at bay for now...

Marius' turn!

[Justanotherhero]

"..the .."
Stark jumps after being attacked and lands back on his feet looking at a corpse that just rested on the ground. "God you stink.."
Stark uses the torch in his right hand to fake an attack that the being easily parries. After that he kicks into the exposed connection of leg bones sending the things back to the ground.

[HalfTangible]

One of the war ghosts is momentarily stunned at the sight of the Chosen cutting through the horde of undead. The other, however, continues charging forward to close the distance between it and the enemy it was brought here to combat. It is an old warrior, dead to betrayal, and has never had the chance to exact vengeance... but for now, these vermin must do. (War Ghost Bill moves to short range from the Chosen)

Allev acts simultaneously!

[Apogee1]

Coming off a mess of dodges, parries, and deflections, Allev draws a deep breath as he steps into a calm spot among the horde.

"Time to put you misbegotten abominations back into your graves," he mutters, taking a final breath. Then, on the exhale, he moves. Dull light glints off the silk around his sword as it dances back and forth, landing on elbows, knees, shoulder blades, and heads. With flowing strands around his hand, his fingers flutter up and down off the hilt, twitching the blade ever-so-slightly as to land on vulnerable locations. Undead bodies animated by foul magic these may be, but the weak points of the human body remain weak, and could be exploited by someone who knew where they were.

[HalfTangible]

The creature ahead of the group, more a whirlwind than a creature, lets out a ghastly, screeching howl, and from its body spews forth a blackened mist not unlike the Veil you've been walking through. However, whatever Allev did to the Impenetrable Veil doesn't seem to affect it. The cloud rushes over you, and you are swallowed by the darkness.

Larin Tanas, you were at short range from the group. You can't see them, but neither of the war ghosts seem impeded. They're rushing into the cloud... and the one you weren't stalking is now moving with a speed that belies sense.

The war ghosts are now both at close range from you. You're still hidden from them, but soon they'll disappear from sight.

The Mortwight spends 8m to activate Black Breath of the Abyss. A black mist that you can't see through spreads out from the Mortwight up to medium range. The Mortwight is now concealed from you, but the cloud covers you as it moves into short range; you are surrounded by the mist and are blinded.

War Ghost Ted moves into short range, just at the edge of the void. He activates Flying Time Technique, and now acts on the tick 3 above his actual initiative score. He adds two automatic successes on any attack roll against a character that has not acted yet during this round, and adds +2 Defense against attacks made by characters that act after it in turn order.

Why didn't Bill do the same, you ask? Good question!

Larin Tanas' turn!

[Volthawk]

As his target draws closer, Larin nods to himself. This was it, his moment to strike. Leaping from his position, Larin lashes out with his chains, grabbing at the war ghost's armoured limbs and using his momentum and a kick to pull the spirit's armoured shell apart.

Hearing the armour fall to the ground behind him, Larin grins and turns to look at the other members of the group - hopefully they could see that through the darkness, it'd be a shame if he finally worked with a group and they didn't get to see what he could do - and nods before darting away, ducking under the blade of the remaining war ghost as he gets behind cover again, lining up his next move.

[HalfTangible]

Larin, nobody sees the brilliance of your move. No one notices the sheer beauty of the moment you choose to strike. In a single blow, the armored ghost is no longer a threat, and though you don't have the charms to eliminate it entirely, it's no longer material and can do no harm to you or to your comrades. And no one even saw you move.

Of course, there's only so much you can do to hide the sound of full plate armor bursting apart and clattering to the ground with the keening death-wail of the long since dead. The other war ghost is startled, and the helmeted head whips around, almost too quickly for you to fade away from its sight. (The key word there being 'almost'.) It knows you're there, but it doesn't know where you are.

Brandr, Allev, and Marius: you hear the clattering armor, but you can barely see each other in this fog, let alone whatever Larin is doing.

Brandr's turn!

[WarDragon]

Brandr's wolfish hearing and nose let him know that Larin has rendered one war ghost a non-threat. Impressed despite himself, and feeling a bit outdone, he launches a strike of his own at the remaining animated armor, striking his spear through a gap in its heavy plate.

10 sux on 19 dice with a withering attack at war ghost Ted. Will edit in damage later.

[Justanotherhero]

Stark can not see anything in this darkness. But he can hope to react. Breathing in calmly he focuses on footsteps whatever, whoever is coming they have feet. Feet he I tends to hear. Focusing his essence he continues to gain a slight glow and closes his eyes to enhance his other senses.

Base 4 +2 Full Defense+ 2 Brawl Excellency (4m)+ 1 Stunt

[HalfTangible]

Brandr can't see what he's striking, but he feels the impact of his spear into armor; he feels it dent and bend inward as his enemy is hit. The zombies, however, are clawing and scratching at Alleviating Hands Unyielding and Marius. The undead seem entirely unimpeded by the darkness around them. They crowd around the two of you, and though you cannot see them fully, you feel them trying to get a hold... and failing, as you bat them aside with your weapons.

[Apogee1]

A different wave of darkness flows over Allev, and this one he cannot twist to stay away. For a moment, he remains calm and waits, but it is not long before he hears the clinking of the raised dead back around him. Despite the darkness, he moves with nearly equivalent grace and tight, sweeping motions to knock back or down the undead. If anyone could see him in the darkness, they'd notice waving strands of silk, some that would surely be a terrible blend of colors, dancing out around him, over his fingers and arms and shoulders. He knew the feel of strings flying gently through the air, and when they rested on something else it was easy enough to notice. Counting the nearby zombies, he struck back, bouncing from foe to foe, landing heavy blows on each that knocked them down and onto the rubble around him, and trailing strands of all colors.

13 (10 stats + 3 accuracy + 1 specialty + 2 stunt -3 for blindness) dice attack with excellent strike for 1 success and reroll ones.

Moving from noise to noise, shape to shape, Allev hammers down a series of Zombies. The sword in silk in his hand once again finds their weakest points, magic leaving the bodies as they fall broken. Two zombies fall, then more, and then there are only three left. As he approaches, a twirls sends a layer of blue silk over them. Following the lines, Allev moves, breaking through the shoulder blade of the first, bashing the skull of the second, and hitting the third in the chest hard enough it flies back, down, and onto a pair of broken beams that spear through its chest. With his other hand, he fiddles with the silk for a moment, beforing tying and flicking it so it covers the heads of the once again fully dead bodies. "Rest once again," he murmers.

[HalfTangible]

Allev's silk-covered blade seemed like a blunted hunk of moonsilver, but the Distaff quickly proves its worth. He strikes with a strength and grace that beguiles the senses, silken strands dancing through the air invisibly. The last of the zombies fall, and though none of you can see it, the dead bodies release one final breath, their torment over.

"rEsT ONcE aGAin?!"

Something that whirled and bit like a tornado of teeth and stone slammed into Allev, pressing down upon him with the hungry fervor of a monster possessed. Dark mist spewed from its form like a geyser from the ground. Its whirling strikes are undercut by laughter tinged with rage. Its voice (if you could call it that) sounds like echoes of other words, strung together into the vague approximation of a sound.

"nO ReST foR US! rEst for YOU!!!"

[HalfTangible]

Allev's blade comes up, the mortwight's wailing and flailing limbs slamming into the silk-wrapped blade. He's forced a step back, but is not hit.

Brandr, you see the other armored ghost turn its blade towards you, swinging it in what seems to be a blind panic. He's barely even worth dodging.